Antwerp (Eurotoday Newspaper) – Antwerp launches AI-powered Tram 1 with sensors and cameras. Driver Yves Lelegems tests the system. July to September 2025 pilot monitors CAF Urbos trams while University College London studies driver alertness and safety.
As VRT News reported, a tram equipped with artificial intelligence has been launched in Antwerp. Tram driver Yves Lelegems, with more than 20 years of experience, is among the first to test the trial. He says it is important to be part of a project that looks at safety for the future. During the test runs, he is connected to wires and sensors that follow his reactions.
“I wear a special cap that measures my brain activity,”
Says Ielegems.
“This way, they can see how I react to certain traffic situations. Two sweat sensors are attached to my fingers, and a heart rate monitor is under my sleeve. All of those measures my stress level.”
What is Antwerp doing to test AI technology on Tram 1 with Yves Lelegems?
The data is sent to researchers at University College London. They are studying how the system affects driver focus, alertness and workload. The results will decide how the technology can be improved and used more widely in public transport.
The new tram system in Antwerp gives drivers direct warnings when sensors detect something unusual. Tram driver Yves Lelegems explains that the tram does not brake on its own. Instead, he hears a clear signal through a special device. This allows him to judge the situation and take action. Lelegems notes that work is already underway on self-driving buses and trucks. He believes that one day, self-driving trams and trains will follow.
Tram 1 looks like any regular tram, but the cabin has been changed with new technology. Tram 1 is the first to run with this system in the city. Passengers won’t notice, but the driver now works with an assistance tool. The system uses sensors, cameras and smart software to watch the route. It warns about risks on the tracks and gives alerts in real time.
In July 2025, Antwerp began test runs for its new AI-powered tram system. The system uses cameras, sensors, and smart software to assist drivers on the tracks. In August 2025, Tram 1 was officially equipped with the technology developed by the Ghent-based company OTIV.
By September 2025, several CAF Urbos trams across the city had the system installed. The pilot project is part of the European ARISE research initiative and monitors how drivers respond in real traffic conditions, including rush hours and nighttime operations.
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