Shanghai Metro AC01 and AC02
| Company type | Train series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Rail transport |
| Predecessor | AC01 and AC02 |
| Founded | 1996-07-31 |
Area served | Shanghai Metro Lines 1, 2, and formerly Line 3 |
| Products | Metro trains |
| Owner | Shentong Metro Group |
| Parent | Shentong Metro Group |
The 01A03, 01A04, and 02A01 train series (previously known as AC01 and AC02) operate on Shanghai Metro's Line 1 and Line 2. These vehicles, produced by Adtranz, Siemens Mobility, and CSR Zhuzhou Locomotive, were upgraded by Shentong Metro Group during 2023–2024 to improve their operational efficiency and extend their lifespan.
The original agreement, finalized on July 31, 1996, involved the supply of 216 cars (36 trainsets), followed by an additional procurement of 12 cars (2 sets) in 2001. This fleet is divided into two classifications: AC01 designated for Line 1 and AC02 assigned to Line 2.
Before the arrival of the Shanghai Metro AC03 trains, the AC01 and AC02 models were also utilized on Line 3, enhancing the network’s operational versatility.
Features
The AC01 trains are distinguished by a red and white color scheme, whereas AC02 trains feature green and white. The original units—01A03, 01A04, and 02A01—are equipped with pneumatic doors featuring five-color indicators; however, the extension cars for 01A04 utilize electric doors. It is important to note that the 02A01 trains do not include Passenger Information Systems. During the second comprehensive refurbishment, all carriage lighting covers were replaced, switching from grid designs to white plastic panels.
Original sets
In line with the DC01 model specifications, the initial contracts for Lines 1 and 2 called for six-car formations, reflecting anticipated lower passenger volumes during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The train configuration followed a Tc-Mp-M+Mp-M-Tc sequence.
Expansion program
Beginning in 2006, CSR Zhuzhou Locomotive undertook an expansion project for AC01 and AC02 trains by adding two additional cars to eight AC01 sets (numbers 118–125) and sixteen AC02 sets (201–216), utilizing cars from an extra batch of twelve sets (126–129 and 217–224). These extended trains were reclassified as AC01A and AC02A respectively.
A further contract with CSR Zhuzhou provided 72 cars intended to enlarge the remaining dozen trains. During this phase, eight AC02 sets (217–224) were renumbered as sets 130–137. All expanded trains within ranges 126–129 and 130–137 were redesignated as AC01B and assigned to Line 1 service.
Set number 117 was the last to undergo expansion but had been out of operation following a collision at Shanghai Railway Station in December 2009. In 2011, CSR Zhuzhou delivered four cars—two replacements (98022, 98033) for damaged vehicles and two additional expansion cars (14673, 14682)—enabling Set 117 to receive the new classification AC01C.
Post-expansion
In 2014, a renaming initiative consolidated the four train models: AC01A and AC01C became 01A03, AC01B was renamed 01A04, while AC02A was rebranded as 02A01.
During inspections conducted in 2018 and 2019, structural frame cracks were detected on several cars within the 01A03 and 02A01 series. These affected units were swiftly withdrawn from operation, prompting Shentong Metro to launch urgent repair efforts by November 2019.
Mishaps
On March 24, 2004, car number 99251 collided with car number 92113; it was subsequently repaired by Bombardier Transportation and reinstated into service.
On December 22, 2009, cars numbered 98033 and 98042 suffered severe damage at Shanghai Railway Station after being struck by car number 013151. These units were dismantled in 2011 and replaced with new vehicles supplied by CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive. In addition, car 98042 was converted into the SMTC Experimental Car by CRRC Dalian in 2015 to support rolling stock maintenance training.
On July 15, 2018, set number 133 was taken out of service at North Zhongshan Road station due to a malfunction. While being transferred to Fujin Road Yard, a faulty motor caused damage to signaling equipment, resulting in delays along Line 1. After undergoing extensive repairs, this set returned to operation on July 28, 2021.
01A03
Throughout 2023 and 2024, all 01A03 trainsets underwent refurbishment at Fujin Road Yard and Meilong Depot. Their pneumatic door systems were substituted with electric doors to improve dependability and enhance passenger comfort.
01A04
Starting in 2025, Shentong Metro began fitting CBTC signaling technology across the entire fleet of 01A04 vehicles.
02A01
Units numbered 00071–00121, 01262, and 01273 received CBTC signaling upgrades alongside a transition from pneumatic to electric doors, marking them as the initial modernized trains reintroduced in December 2023. The rest of the 02A01 series has been progressively updated and returned to operation since January 2024.
Withdrawal
The 01A03 fleet will not undergo signaling modernization and is planned for decommissioning by the end of December 2028.
See also
- Shanghai Metro DC01
- A1 (Guangzhou Metro car)
- Shanghai Metro AC05 – The design of the 01A04 expansion cars is shared with this model.