Tel Aviv Metro Advances With $30 Billion Tender for Driverless Train Systems

The Tel Aviv Metropolitan Mass Transit System (NTA) announced the launch of the preliminary qualification process for its second infrastructure phase (Infra 2) of the metro project, valued at approximately 30 billion shekels. This phase follows the initial Infra 1 stage, which focused on tunneling and infrastructure works. Infra 2 will cover the installation of operational systems including driverless trains, signaling and control systems, electrical and energy infrastructure, station systems, as well as network operation and maintenance.

NTA highlighted that the metro will feature fully automated trains operating at GOA4 automation level, the highest standard in rail transport, similar to systems in Copenhagen, the UAE, Australia, and Canada. These trains will be managed by real-time integrated control and safety systems, with adaptations for Israel’s cybersecurity and emergency infrastructure. Despite the project's security sensitivity, no restrictions have been imposed on companies from less friendly countries at this stage, contrasting with previous US attempts to limit Chinese firms in Israeli rail projects.

The Infra 2 tenders complement the earlier Infra 1 tenders, which amounted to about 65 billion shekels, bringing the total tender volume for both phases to roughly 95 billion shekels. Twenty consortia comprising 33 Israeli and international infrastructure companies have entered the preliminary qualification stage. This marks a critical milestone as the project shifts from construction to integrating multiple complex systems and suppliers to achieve operational readiness.

NTA CEO Itamar Ben Meir emphasized the project's complexity and the search for top partners, while Chairwoman Yodfat Afek Arzi noted the transition from engineering mega-project to a functioning transportation network. The metro will connect central Israel with three lines spanning 150 kilometers, 109 stations, and 24 municipalities including Tel Aviv, Herzliya, Raanana, Petah Tikva, Bat Yam, and others. The total project cost is estimated at 150 billion shekels, with an expected annual ridership exceeding 600 million trips.

However, challenges remain in meeting deadlines and controlling costs, especially given past delays in related light rail projects in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area. The decision to advance Infra 2 tenders before completing Infra 1 qualification reflects lessons learned from previous integration delays. The project’s successful execution will be a major test of Israel’s infrastructure capabilities and economic management.