US Transit Agencies Consider Possibility of Unmanned Trains

As American streets see a rise in automated vehicles such as robotaxis, the conversation around driverless mass transit systems is intensifying. Notably, Washington, D.C., is advancing a plan that could allow its subway to be fully managed by computers, while Los Angeles is working on a new fully automated line.

Despite these developments, most transit systems in the U.S. still require human operators. The push for automation also raises questions about safety and financial viability. Supporters argue that American transit is far behind other countries that operate unattended public transport systems. Meanwhile, the implementation of automation is complicated by past incidents, such as the 2009 crash on the D.C. Red Line, which halted further automation efforts for years. However, there is a renewed focus on these initiatives, particularly as officials aim for significant upgrades to their infrastructure by as early as 2033.