July 22, 2026
Equans France is supporting the expansion of the Val’tram light rail system
The Val’tram project, led by the Aix‑Marseille–Provence (MAMP), is being carried out in co–operation with INEO SCLE, a subsidiary of Equans France, as well as with ETF (Eurovia Travaux Ferroviaires). It involves extending the existing tram line from Aubagne to La Bouilladisse. This collaboration builds on previous projects carried out between the Metropolitan Area and Equans France, particularly on major infrastructure projects such as the Marseille metro and the Marseille tram network. This extension aims to provide the region with a more efficient, sustainable mobility solution that is fully adapted to the current needs of users.
Equans France is converting a former SNCF rail line into a modern tram system
The project’s key feature is the reuse of a former SNCF rail line—a first in France for a tram system.
This configuration presents several technical challenges:
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Protection of existing structures, some of which are old or in a fragile condition
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Adapting rail infrastructure for tramway use
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Coordination across disciplines to ensure safety, compliance, and continuity of the route
The central challenge is therefore to transform a network designed for trains into an infrastructure capable of accommodating a modern tram system.
Equans France Overcomes a Technical Challenge in Reusing an SNCF Line
To meet the project’s needs, Equans France mobilized a comprehensive and coordinated technical organization. The teams carried out several major projects throughout the project.
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Modernization of existing facilities
The substation was expanded and reinforced with a new power distribution cabinet, allowing for the integration of the network expansion and the adaptation of the existing installations.
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Strengthening the power supply
To ensure a reliable power supply for the future tramway, the teams built six new substations‑substations and modernized the existing ones, following a series of tests conducted on a test bed.
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The passenger station equipment
The stations were equipped with eleven electrical cabinets, and the cables needed to power them were installed along the entire route.
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Work on the line
The line has been equipped with thirty power supply units and three circuit-breaking devices, which are essential for ensuring the continuity and safety of service.
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The depot was upgraded
The new storage tracks were connected using an additional power distribution cabinet dedicated to these improvements.
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Cross-section work
Existing structures were analyzed and brought up to code, the structures were adapted to accommodate rolling stock, and coordination across‑disciplines ensured the safety and consistency of the alignment.
Equans France is helping to make Val’tram a key project for local mobility
The Val’tram extension demonstrates Equans France’s ability to tackle complex technical challenges while ensuring effective collaboration with the Aix Metropolitan Area‑Marseille‑Provence and the project’s other partners. This synergy makes it possible to modernize existing infrastructure, improve local mobility, and offer a sustainable transportation solution to residents. Val’tram thus serves as a concrete example of collective success that benefits the region
