Russia begins testing fully autonomous Lastochka train

Russia has begun testing a fully autonomous Lastochka train equipped with Level 4 automation technology.

The tests are being conducted on the Moscow Central Circle, according to Russian media.

Unlike Level 3 automated trains, in which a driver monitors the train’s movement and door operations, the new system does not require a person to be on board. The train accelerates, brakes, and opens and closes its doors autonomously, while an operator monitors its operation from a control center.

The developers said one operator will be able to simultaneously monitor up to four trains and intervene in their operation if necessary, including remotely stopping a train and controlling its doors, air conditioning and other systems.

According to the developers, the domestically developed system has no global equivalent for trains operating on open railway infrastructure. It can recognize obstacles and road signs faster than a human and automatically stop the train when a hazard is detected.

By Jeyhun Aghazada