In service 1997–present Constructed 1996–1998 | Manufacturer GEC Alsthom Refurbishment 2014–2017 | |
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Formation 6 cars (Line 5)
7 cars (Line 1 and 5)
8 cars (Line 1) Capacity 720 passengers, 242 seats | ||
The NS 93 (Neumático Santiago 1993) is the third generation of rubber tired rolling stock used on the Santiago Metro system. The trains were manufactured by GEC Alsthom (now Alstom) in 1996 and went into operation in 1997. Originally designed for use on Line 5, the trains first operated on Line 2 prior to the opening of Line 5.
Contents
Features
The NS 93 series is based on the design of MP 89 series from the Paris Métro, along with sloped ends, automatic doors and through gangways from car to car. However, the NS 93 is slightly taller than the MP 89 to accommodate air conditioning, and they operate in 6 car formations on Line 5 (SN-NP-NNS), 7 car formations on Lines 1 and 5 (SN-NP-NRNS), and 8 car formations on Line 1 (NNS-NRNS). As a result, the trains can operate in 90, 105, and 120 meter lengths, depending which line they are assigned to. The length of each car is 14.88 meters (15.38 meters for cars containing the driver's cab).
The interior of the NS 93 is graced with a cream white scheme with orange plastic seating. Each trainset is also equipped with a train speed surveillance system (SACEM), which the MP 89 does not have. In 2010, automated station announcements were added to all trains. In 2014, a modernization project was announced [1] - allowing the trains to be refurbished and receive air conditioning systems. The project will also change the exterior livery from its original two-tone blue to the red/white scheme currently used on newer trains.
Other Specifications
Incidents
On February 7, 2012, a train en route to one of the garages derailed near a condominium complex and playground. The train was not in service at the time and was only operating in testing mode following repair work. No injuries were reported, but the train and surrounding property, including four vehicles, suffered substantial damage.