The major shift in air conditioning in public transport

Heat wave, heatwave… With climate change, episodes of high temperatures are set to multiply in Île-de-France.

On the streets, the heat is already hard to bear, but what about public transport? Until recently, commuters in Île-de-France often complained of widespread discomfort. But the situation is evolving: the tide is turning… to the cool.

Year after year, Île-de-France Mobilités continues its investments to modernize transport networks. New or renovated trains, buses, trams, and metros are designed to improve passenger comfort while respecting the environment, particularly through the widespread implementation of low-energy-impact air conditioning systems.

Goal of 90% by 2025 for trains

In the last five years, Île-de-France Mobilités has deployed over 700 new or renovated trains equipped with air conditioning. Today, 73% of the Transilien fleet (RER and suburban trains) is air-conditioned. The goal of 90% should be reached as early as 2025, confirming a significant improvement in comfort for long-distance travel.

The metro lags behind, but changes are happening. As of now, 50% of the trains are equipped with air conditioning or cooling ventilation, particularly on lines 1, 2, 5, 9, and part of 14.

Starting in 2024, the new MF19 trains, fully air-conditioned, are being deployed on lines 3, 3bis, 7, 7bis, 8, 10, 12, and 13. The MP14 trains, also air-conditioned, are gradually replacing the old trains on lines 4 and 11. The entire Paris metro is expected to be air-conditioned by 2035.

Almost everyone cool in the tramway

All tramway lines in Île-de-France are now air-conditioned, except for line T1. Its renewal is underway and should be completed by the end of 2024.

The Île-de-France fleet currently includes about 10,500 buses and coaches, of which 60% are air-conditioned, totaling over 4,200 vehicles. All new vehicles ordered since 2019 include air conditioning. Île-de-France Mobilités plans for a fully air-conditioned fleet between 2029 and 2030, in connection with the gradual transition to clean vehicles.

Adapting to climate change is now a priority in Île-de-France transport. The strategy of Île-de-France Mobilités aims to combine passenger comfort, energy performance, and sustainability of equipment. Ultimately, residents of Île-de-France should be able to travel comfortably, even in the middle of summer.

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