NEXUS project kicks-off with new survey on improved metro operations

To keep cities and regions moving, railways play an essential role in providing a safe, smart, and sustainable means of transport. The rapid urbanisation of European cities is accompanied by the need to make transport greener, and metro systems are among the most sustainable modes of travel. But, at the same time, they face several challenges, such as fluctuating passenger demand, ageing infrastructure, and increasing expectations for accessibility, comfort, and safety.

As part of the EU’s broader vision for connected, sustainable, inclusive, safe, and secure mobility, rail systems must continue to evolve. The newly launched NEXUS project represents a movement towards next-generation metro systems that are adaptable, automated, and user-focused.

Launched in October 2024, NEXUS is a two-year Horizon Europe project involving 13 consortium partners, including UITP, metro operators, universities, research centres, and associations. Thanks to this collaboration, the project’s results will reflect both technological innovation and practical operational needs.

Aligned with the EU Green Deal and the EU-Rail Joint Undertaking, NEXUS will implement two use cases: Genoa, Italy, and Sofia, Bulgaria, demonstrating how metro systems can become more responsive to passenger needs in real time and more resilient to operational disruptions. This embodies UITP’s core principle: a people-first approach to public transport. Because public transport should serve and benefit all.

Europe boasts over 200,000 kilometres of railway lines (Eurostat), with 46 cities operating metro networks. In 2019 alone, the annual metro ridership reached 11,021 million users (UITP Statistics Brief Metro Figures 2021), underlining the importance these systems play in urban mobility. Despite growing demand, continuous improvement is needed to guarantee metro systems remain reliable, efficient, and attractive as a mode of transport.

Rail transport remains one of the most sustainable mobility options, and the EU has long recognised its crucial role in achieving climate goals, including a 90% reduction in transport emissions by 2050. For metro systems to contribute to these goals and stay competitive, they must embrace innovation and adapt to the changing needs of cities and passengers.

NEXUS directly addresses these challenges by focusing on three key areas:

• Exploring the potential of full automation for flexible operations and improved passenger experiences.
• Enhancing train designs to boost efficiency, accessibility, and comfort.
• Strengthening security and resilience against threats using AI-driven data analysis.
• Developing practical guidelines and recommendations for metro operators to facilitate the transition towards smarter, greener, and more inclusive networks.

The NEXUS project will showcase and validate its innovations through two use cases in two EU metro networks:

NEXUS is committed to improve metro operations, not only through technological advancements but also by prioritising a user-centred approach and inclusivity. The project places a strong emphasis on understanding the needs and preferences of diverse passenger groups. By analysing behaviours and travel patterns, the project aims to optimise station layouts, train interiors, and information systems to ensure a comfortable and accessible environment for all users.

To ensure that the project develops solutions that truly meet passengers’ needs, NEXUS has launched a survey to gather insights on metro improvements in capacity, safety, and comfort. The survey covers a wide range of topics, from metro automation and interior design to platform occupancy and information displays.

Whether you’re a daily commuter, an occasional traveller, or simply passionate about urban mobility, we invite you to contribute to the survey.

Discover more about NEXUS on the project’s official website and stay updated through its LinkedIn page.

And don’t forget – take the survey to make your voice is heard and your ride improved!