Answers to your questions about REM system updates

A number of improvements have been identified that will enable us to add features, bolster communications systems and rectify certain defects. Below are a few examples:

• Updates to screens in cars
  Improvements to communications systems
  Corrections of minor bugs in train and system software
  Automation of manual processes, such as activating the snow brake from the control centre 
  Activation of car capacity indicators above platform screen doors

Several improvements have been identified and grouped together.

A system update involves several steps, including:

1. Leading up to the days chosen for system updates: 

• The update is developed.
• The safety aspects of the update are checked.

2. During the REM’s extended closing hours:

• A pilot version of the updated is installed in car systems.   
• Cars are operated on the tracks between Central Station and Brossard station to test whether the improvements targeted by the update work properly.
• The update is uninstalled before opening the network and the checked systems are reimplemented, as cars can only operate with an update that has been approved by an independent safety expert.
• The network is opened at 7:30 a.m.

3. The above steps are repeated until the reliability of the update is approved by the independent safety expert.

4. The system update is permanently integrated.

• Once approved by the independent safety expert, the update is implemented for the trains to operate with passengers. 
   

The network shuts down for 4 hours a day, but our teams need 6 hours to carry out all the steps involved in an update. To minimize the impact, we open the network later when ridership is lowest, i.e. Saturday and Sunday mornings between 5:30 and 7:30.

No, it’s a question of optimizing the existing system. Since its commissioning, the REM has provided users with a level of reliability of 98%, and we aim to exceed 99%. These system improvements will help us achieve this goal. 

REM in its first year of operation, and it’s customary for any new automated transit network to make frequent system upgrades.  

During a planned network interruption to allow systems to be updated, a shuttle bus service is available for users. Shuttle bus information is available here: Service in the event of REM interruption

No, these improvements are aimed at helping us achieve our network reliability target of 99%. User safety is a top priority, and CDPQ Infra would never allow the network to operate if it weren’t safe for users.