7. Electric ⚡

The network is powered by a 1,500 V catenary and the engines consume over 300 kilowatt hours. This mode of electric transport will emit no greenhouse gases (GHG) and will reduce emissions by 680,000 tonnes over 25 years in operation.

8. Accessible ♿

One of the REM’s unique features is that the 26 stations will offer universal access and be equipped with elevators. Cars have been designed to meet specific accessibility requirements. A life-sized model was reproduced in Montréal and was tested by people with reduced mobility to make sure that everything was in order before manufacturing began. Reserved spaces may be used for strollers, baggage or bicycles. Colours were carefully chosen to make effective use of contrasts and make elements such as doors and grab rails easy to identify for people with visual difficulties.

9. Platform screen doors 🔐

Platforms will be protected by screen doors that will open and close at the same time as the metro doors. This technology is often used in Europe and Asia, but this will be a first in North America. In addition to increased passenger safety, these screen doors prevent objects from being dropped onto the tracks—one of the main causes for delays in the metro. This feature guarantees reliable service for your commutes!

10. Capacity indicator 👉

Capacity indicators above the screen doors will indicate which cars are full and which are not. This will distribute passengers better and make them more comfortable since they can choose the right cars before boarding.

11. Wi-fi, heating and air condition 👍

The REM will be heated in winter (by means of ventilation and heated floors) and air conditioned in the summer. Unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi will be available, which will be useful for both daily users who want to listen to their programs and tourists coming from the airport.

12. Designed for winter ⛄

Russia, Finland, Poland… Alstom has successfully led railway projects to completion in countries that have extreme winter conditions. Every possible feature has been designed for operation in Montréal’s conditions, including heated door thresholds and floors, heated automatic couplers at the ends, ice protection equipment, heated windshields and ice scrapers on the pantographs. In 2020, Alstom will conduct static tests on the metros, the equipment and their features in one of the best climatic chambers in the world (in Vienna), and dynamic testing will then take place in Montréal prior to commissioning.