Unmanned Diagnostic Train MARS LGV to Enhance Track Inspection Efficiency in France

SNCF Réseau has unveiled the MARS LGV project — an unmanned train designed to inspect high-speed railway lines, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

MARS LGV: A New Era in Technical Monitoring

Currently, TGV passenger trains handle track diagnostics on French high-speed lines, but this approach involves financial and operational risks.

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To mitigate these, SNCF is developing MARS LGV — an autonomous train equipped with high-resolution cameras, radar sensors, and LIDAR technology.

These systems detect defects and obstacles while transmitting real-time data to the control center.

The first prototype is scheduled for development in 2026, with deliveries expected in 2027.

Full-scale testing will take place from 2028 to 2029, with operational deployment planned for 2030.

MARS LGV Development Consortium

The project is being implemented in partnership with Forsee Power, Compagnie des Signaux, IRT Railenium, Socofer France, Spirops, and SNCF’s DTIPG division.

Their joint efforts focus on delivering a high-tech solution for the European railway network.

Meanwhile, in Japan, operator JR Central plans to retire the Dr Yellow diagnostic train in favor of onboard monitoring systems installed in the N700S passenger fleet.

This marks a global trend toward integrating diagnostic technologies directly into operational trains.

Thus, the deployment of MARS LGV reflects a broader move toward digitalization and automation in the railway sector, ensuring safety and sustainable development of transport infrastructure.

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