SPIE continues the deployment of a video surveillance system on Line A of the Lyon Metro

Saint-Ouen, 9 September 2025 – SPIE CityNetworks, a French subsidiary of SPIE, the independent European leader in multi-technical services in the areas of energy and communications, is currently deploying a state-of-the-art ground-to-train communication system on Line A of the Lyon Metro for SYTRAL Mobilités, the public transport authority for Greater Lyon. The installation work, which began in late 2023, will enable real-time video streaming between trains, platforms and control centres, significantly improving the safety of passengers, who, collectively, make almost 260,000 journeys on this major line of the TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais [Lyon Public Transport]) network every day.

Technical expertise for increased safety

SPIE CityNetworks, the lead company in the consortium formed with Roiret Transport, is responsible for the integration and deployment of a state-of-the-art ground-to-train communication system enabling the instantaneous transmission of video surveillance images. This system, which is being deployed on behalf of SYTRAL Mobilités, equips Line A in its entirety (26 trains in total), including the tunnels and the workshop shared by Lines A and B. 

Operators will be able to gain a real-time overview of the network as a whole thanks to the instantaneous transmission of images between the trains in operation and the control centres. This continuous surveillance, combined with the system's significant recording capabilities, will significantly improve passenger safety while limiting the service disruption caused by incidents.

Train drivers will also be able to view images at stations in order to manage the opening and closing of doors in accordance with passenger volumes.

Optimal organisation for minimal service disruption

The SPIE CityNetworks teams have strategically organised their work to minimise service disruption. All work is being carried out at night, when the line is not in use, following a rigorous methodology that is adapted to the limitations of working underground. This solution meets the demanding requirements of a metro network that requires a functional video surveillance system in order to ensure safety and service continuity. 

Proven expertise on Lyon's network 

SPIE CityNetworks has a proven track record in implementing video surveillance systems on the various lines of the Lyon Metro. From 2017–2018, SPIE CityNetworks equipped 36 Line-D trains with 576 cameras and a ground-to-train communication system. From 2020–2023, the subsidiary oversaw the complete deployment of the ground-to-train communication system and low-voltage system on Line B (including the extension of the line towards HLS - Hôpital Lyon Sud): 36 automatic trains were equipped. From 2021–2024, SPIE CityNetworks installed a ground-to-train communication system for the five trains of Line C.

"As the lead company on this project, we are demonstrating our expertise in deploying systems underground and our ability to coordinate complex technological solutions," explains Alice Houlliot, Head of Transport Projects within the Transport and Mobility Operational Division of SPIE CityNetworks."SPIE CityNetworks is accelerating the digital transformation of transport infrastructure with a view to supporting regional authorities by making everyday mobility safer and more efficient for all passengers."