A detailed illustrated review of the urban rail networks operating in and around the city of Paris. The author, Christoph Groneck, looks at every means of urban rail transport, giving an historical overview of each system in turn and the vehicles used to transport millions of passengers around the French capital.
U-Bahn, S-Bahn & Tram in Paris examines all of the following rail systems:
- Métro
- RER
- Transilien
- Tramways
- Tram-Train
- VAL
The French capital has much more to offer the urban rail enthusiast than just the world-famous "Métro", which is currently being expanded on a large scale in the outer areas of the Paris conurbation. The "RER" (Réseau Express Régional) is a network of frequent cross-city trains that run far beyond the city limits; a network complemented by a series of radial suburban lines classified as "Transilien". In addition, there are now 11 tram lines, some of them isolated from each other, including two "Tram-Train" routes operated by SNCF, and two "Translohr" lines, which feature trams on rubber tyres. The transport scene is completed by two VAL systems, i.e. driverless small-profile metros that connect the two major airports.
U-Bahn, S-Bahn & Tram in Paris is profusely illustrated in colour throughout. As well as illustrating a variety of trains and trams, the photographs also show some of the notable architectural features to be found at stations and elsewhere on the networks.
At the back of the book, the reader will also find 10 pages of detailed maps making up an urban rail network atlas of the entire metropolitan area of Paris, which is home to some 10 million people. 160 pages. Approximately 300 colour photographs. Text is in German & English.