Madrid is launching what Metro considers a new step towards modernization: at Príncipe Pío station, the first equipment of the so-called “Station 4.0 ” model – with giant screens, video calls for user service and intelligent turnstiles – has already been installed, with the intention of gradually extending this technology to the entire network.
Specifically, 15 new turnstiles and 7 ticket vending machines have been deployed in the Paseo de La Florida concourse of Príncipe Pío, while 3 vending machines are already operating in the concourse linked to the ADIF train station and a total of 18 new turnstiles will be installed, of which 8 are already in service. In addition, the installation of plastic roofs over some of the machines is in response to a repair of leaks coming from ADIF, not from Metro, according to information provided by Metro to Madrid Secreto.
The Community of Madrid had already informed that 220 intelligent turnstiles have been installed in the network and another 185 are planned before the end of the year, reaching 405 devices in this first phase.
A tangible improvement in accessibility and user information
The transformation proposed by the “Station 4.0” model is not only aesthetic. The new equipment features concrete improvements: the turnstiles take up less space, the ticket validation interface uses graphics and text, and includes acoustic warnings and LED signs on doors and floors to guide the user.
The ticket vending machines incorporate advanced features: large screens (42 inches), camera for customer service video call, intelligent keyboard and natural language recognition, in addition to allowing destination selection by means of images of places of interest to facilitate their use by tourists or people who are not accustomed to them.
What does this change mean for travelers?
For the regular or sporadic traveler in Madrid, the benefits can be summarized as greater agility, accessibility and clarity. The new turnstiles allow a more fluid and understandable access; the machines, on the other hand, reduce the learning curve for those who visit the city or use the metro occasionally. The fact that one of the lobbies already has machines that offer video call is an indication that the service is also aimed at accompanying the user beyond the simple ticket dispenser.
In Príncipe Pío, this already advanced phase opens the door for other stations in the network to adopt the technology without the user noticing huge interruptions in service. According to the official press release, the deployment will continue, especially on Line 6, taking advantage of renovation works.