VAL

:This article is about VAL, the metro system. For other uses, see Val.

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VAL is a type of automatic (driverless) light rubber-tired metro, technology based on an invention by Professor Robert Gabillard. It was designed in the early 1980s by Matra, for the then new metro system in Lille.

Related Topics:
Rubber-tired - Metro - Robert Gabillard - 1980s - Matra - Lille

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The acronym was originally for Villeneuve d'Ascq à Lille (Villeneuve d'Ascq to Lille), the route of the first line to be projected (and inaugurated). It now officially stands for Véhicule Automatique Léger (automatic light vehicle).

Related Topics:
Acronym - Villeneuve d'Ascq

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In contrast to some other driverless metro systems like the Docklands Light Railway or Vancouver's SkyTrain, the VAL design uses platforms that are separated from the rollways by a glass partition, to prevent waiting passengers from straying or falling onto the rollways. "Platform doors" embedded in these partitions open in synchrony with the train doors when a train stops at the platform.

Related Topics:
Docklands Light Railway - Vancouver - SkyTrain

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