Paris Metro: Line 6 Gets a Makeover… with Old Trains

Thanks to the automation of line 4, line 6 of the Paris subway is receiving more modern equipment and renovated interiors.

In service since the 1970s, the MP73 metro trains on line 6 of the Paris metro will gradually retire. However, they will not be replaced by new equipment, but by the MP89 trains from line 4, which now feature automatic trains.

The MP89 trains are scheduled to start running on line 4 in January 2023. Before beginning their new service, the trains have received a facelift. Île-de-France Mobilités has renovated the seats and ceilings, added new onboard signage, and equipped the trains with an onboard video surveillance system. They also now feature dual-opening doors (i.e., doors opening on both sides), necessary at certain stations (notably Charles de Gaulle – Étoile). Finally, since line 6 platforms are smaller than those on line 4, the number of cars has been reduced from 6 to 5.

At the same time, infrastructure work is underway. Signaling systems, platforms, and tracks have, for example, been adapted for this new metro line.

Several ongoing projects in the Paris metro

Automation work on line 4 of the metro is ongoing. It is causing a number of disruptions for users, but is expected to conclude later this year. The automatic trains are partly sourced from line 14, while the rest are new models.

Line 11 is also preparing to receive new trains. IDF Mobilités indicates a service start for mid-2023. There will also be exceptional closures (details can be found here). These closures will allow testing of the new equipment.

The extension of line 14 toward Orly Airport and Saint-Denis Pleyel will also experience some disruptions, listed at this link. Nnew trains are also being added to this line. The construction work is expected to be completed before the end of 2023.

Read also: Line 12, a new nightmare for the Paris metro?