Paris Métro Line 18
Paris Métro Line 18 is a pivotal component of the Grand Paris Express, an ambitious expansion project aiming to enhance the Paris Métro network. This line, currently under construction, is designed to connect Orly Airport to Versailles via Massy-Palaiseau, the Saclay Plateau, and Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines.
Route and Stations
The line spans approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) and is fully automated, consistent with all lines under the Grand Paris Express initiative. Notably, it will be the only metro line serving the department of Yvelines, featuring three stations across two municipalities: Versailles-Chantiers, Satory in Versailles, and Saint-Quentin Est in Guyancourt.
Development and Characteristics
The inception of Line 18 is rooted in the Grand Paris public transport network project, introduced by former President of France Nicolas Sarkozy in 2009. The line was initially referred to as the "green line" and was conceptualized as an automatic metro line with a suitable gauge. The rolling stock for Line 18 will consist of automatic metro trains running on iron tracks. Each train will measure approximately 2.50 meters (8 ft 2 in) in width—similar to existing Paris metro cars—and will comprise three or four cars with a capacity of 350 passengers per train.
Grand Paris Express: An Overview
The Grand Paris Express is a transformative expansion, adding several new lines to the Paris Métro, including Line 15, Line 16, and Line 18, along with the extension of existing lines such as Line 11 and Line 14. This project is set to significantly increase the metro's reach and efficiency, offering improved connectivity across the Île-de-France region.