The historic trains of Rail 1 are entering a new era through a complete reconstruction program that changes their overall capabilities and image.

That’s according to deputy transport minister Kostas Kyranakis from the depot in Sepolia,introducing the first rebuilt train which is about to enter operation in the next period, after the necessary tests have been completed.

After more than 20 years, a fully reconstructed train is returning to the tracks of Line 1, the most historic urban line of Athens. We are not talking about a simple renovation, but a complete mechanical reconstruction that essentially gives ISAP a new train with another 25 years of life,” the deputy minister said.

With 14 rebuilt trains by 2027, our goal is to reduce the frequency of train services from 8.5 minutes to 5 minutes for the first time in two decades. This means more reliable and denser public transportation for people who use public transportation every day,” he said.

Kyranakis thanked employees, the engineers, the staff of StASY and OASA and all those who worked with perseverance and long hours to achieve today’s result. “This is a complex project that has been delayed for years, but today it is becoming a reality. We are continuing with the goal of better and more reliable public transport for Athens,” he said.

Now, the 14 trains of the 8th delivery, which have been in service since the early 1980s, are getting modern traction systems, air conditioning, new information systems and upgraded safety infrastructure, ensuring at least 25 more years of operation.

In practice, only the metallic body (chassis)is retained from the old trains, while all other systems and equipment are completely replaced. Engines, electrical and pneumatic systems, air conditioning, interiors, lighting and passenger information systems are completely new technology. Essentially, the trains are moving from 1983 to 2026 with a new technological “heart”.

These trains entered circulation between 1983 and 1985 and in recent years have faced increasing maintenance needs due to their age and difficulty in finding spare parts. Their refurbishment is expected to significantly enhance the availability and reliability of Line 1 services.

As announced, the first fully refurbished train is scheduled to enter service in July 2026. By December 2026, three more trains will have joined, while the completion of the project for all 14 trains is timed for May 2027.

What’s changing on the trains

The upgrade includes extensive technological and operational interventions:

Replacement of the old DC motors with modern AC motors and a new traction system, aiming for greater reliability and lower energy consumption.

Full modernisation of air compressors and electrical systems, including passenger doors and key operating mechanisms.

Upgrading the air conditioning system and improving travel conditions for passengers.

Installation of closed circuit television (CCTV), new displays and passenger information systems.

Accessibility interventions for people with disabilities and safe wheelchair transport.

Complete renovation of the interior with new LED lighting, seats, floors, windows and side panels.

Enhancing a hub network

Line 1 remains one of Athens’ most important transport axes, serving thousands of passengers every day. The reconstruction of the trains is expected to make a substantial contribution to improving reliability, comfort and overall quality of travel on a line with a special historical and transport footprint for the city.

The project is being implemented on behalf of STA.SY., with the Spanish company CAF as contractor, at the Volos facility, and is funded by the NSRF. The contract was signed in December 2022.

Simultaneous upgrades to the Metro

At the same time, an upgrade programme is underway for the Athens Metro’s Series I trains, which have been in operation since 2000 and have already passed most of their life cycle.

The intervention includes replacing obsolete systems, adding air conditioning in passenger areas, new information systems and CCTV, as well as diagnostic technologies that enhance the reliability of the services.

In the first phase, the project involves 12 trains, with a budget of about 109 million euros and an estimated implementation period of 36 months. These are the only trains in the network that so far do not have air conditioning in the passenger compartments.