Category: News

The European-funded NEXUS project held its kick-off meeting on October 15^th in Genoa. The project seeks to establish an innovation benchmark and redefine metro transportation across Europe.

Coordinated by STAM SRL, the project envisions a future where technology enhances operations responsibly and sustainably and weaves a narrative where metros become living, adaptable entities.

With a vision to create next-generation adaptive and automated metro operations, NEXUS will pilot its innovative approaches in two major European cities: Genoa and Sofia over the next 24 months. This Horizon Europe initiative aims to enhance metro adaptability, prioritise inclusivity, and foster sustainable practices in line with the European Commission’s objectives for future urban transport systems. During the kick-off event, the consortium partners had the opportunity to experience the Genoa metro system first hand and visit the control room.

The NEXUS project strives to address real-world challenges faced by metro systems, including ageing infrastructure, outdated control systems, and fluctuating passenger demand.  At its core, the project aims to advance state-of-the-art metro systems by developing and deploying a range of new technologies and methodologies, thereby optimising operations and enhancing the passenger experience.

NEXUS will introduce several innovative approaches to metro operations, including:

• Adaptability and Automation: The project redefines metro adaptability by shifting away from traditional planning frameworks and enabling real-time responses to passenger demand fluctuations. This dynamic approach will be coupled with the development of fully automated train control systems, leveraging Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) and Automatic Train Operation (ATO) to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
• AI and Data Science Integration: By integrating AI and data science into metro operations, NEXUS aims to introduce predictive maintenance, dynamic energy optimisation, and advanced cybersecurity measures. This approach will help ensure cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and resilience against potential threats.
• User-Centric Design: NEXUS will prioritise the passenger experience, analysing behaviour, preferences, and journey conditions to optimize metro services for diverse user demographics. This user-centric focus will improve overall satisfaction and accessibility.
• Technology Impact Analysis: A comprehensive analysis of the social, environmental, and technological impacts of new implementations will be conducted to ensure responsible and sustainable technology integration, setting a new benchmark for metro systems worldwide.
• Alignment with EU-Rail System Pillar: NEXUS supports the EU-Rail Joint Undertaking by contributing to the development of a common architecture for the European rail network. This focus on interoperability and open interfaces will help create a more unified and efficient rail system across Europe.

By fostering collaboration among metro operators, passenger representatives, and industry experts, NEXUS will deliver valuable insights and guidelines that support the future development of metro systems across Europe. As NEXUS advances over the next two years, it promises to set new standards in metro operations, ensuring that the journey is as significant as the destination.

“AI presents both opportunities and challenges, but tackling them is key to shaping the future of European metro systems. In this way we can create smarter, more adaptable transport that meets the evolving needs of both cities and passengers,” says Project Coordinator Pietro de Vito.

The NEXUS project, dedicated to transforming metro systems across European cities, is well-positioned to support and contribute to the broader strategic direction of rail innovation in Europe.

Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (ERJU) General Assembly took place on November 21–22, 2024, and made clear how NEXUS’s goals complement Europe’s push for sustainable, efficient, and user-focused rail systems. The event provided an overview of ongoing efforts to harmonize rail operations, integrate advanced technologies, and address societal challenges — all priorities reflected in NEXUS.

A Shared Vision for Adaptability and Efficiency

A key theme at the General Assembly was the need for rail systems to become more adaptable to changing demands and resilient to disruptions. This aligns with NEXUS’s central mission: enabling metro systems to respond dynamically to real-time passenger needs. By developing models that simulate passenger flows and optimize train operations, NEXUS introduces practical tools for improving service efficiency without costly infrastructure overhauls.

Sessions during the Assembly emphasized the importance of delivering technology that addresses real-world problems, such as reducing energy consumption and operational costs. NEXUS contributes to this vision through its focus on energy optimization and predictive maintenance, applying AI-driven solutions to streamline operations and enhance sustainability. These innovations directly support Europe’s ambitions for greener, cost-effective transport systems.

Integration of Automation and Technology

Europe’s rail innovation strategy highlights automation and advanced control systems as critical elements for the future. The NEXUS project is addressing this by advancing fully automated train control systems, such as CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) and ATO (Automatic Train Operation). These technologies ensure safer, smoother, and more efficient metro operations while aligning with the European goal of interoperable and standardized rail networks.

The General Assembly also underlined the importance of harmonization across systems to support the Single European Railway Area (SERA). NEXUS contributes to this goal by prioritizing interoperability and ensuring its solutions can integrate with broader transport networks, fostering consistency and cooperation across European rail systems.

Putting People at the Center

Another recurring theme at the Assembly was the need to address societal and cultural shifts in transport. NEXUS shares this user-centric vision by focusing on accessibility and inclusivity in metro systems. By analyzing passenger behavior and preferences, NEXUS aims to create solutions that meet the needs of diverse demographics, ensuring metro networks are not only efficient but also equitable and user-friendly.

Our Contribution to European Goals

The ERJU General Assembly provided a timely reminder that rail innovation must be both ambitious and practical, delivering measurable benefits for operators and passengers alike. NEXUS reflects this approach by combining cutting-edge technology with actionable strategies to optimize metro systems. From reducing energy footprints to enhancing passenger flow and safety, NEXUS’s innovations align with Europe’s broader efforts to create a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready rail network.

By addressing current challenges in urban transport while contributing to the vision of a unified European rail system, NEXUS ensures its work supports the long-term goals of efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity across Europe’s metro networks.