MF19, for ” Metro iron 2019 tenders », Is a new type of metro trains that will equip from 2025 several lines of the network of the Autonomous Régie des Transports Parisiens (RATP): 3, 3 bis, 7, 7 bis, 8, 10 , the 12 and the 13. Some were starting to date seriously, in particular the MF67 trains which currently has been circulating on line 10, 12, 3 and 3 bis since 1967.
The MF19 will be at the cutting edge of technology: a modern design, “BOA” type oars (possibility of circulating free from one car to another), more efficient traction system to reduce emissions Serre, large information screens, Wi-Fi on board, LED lighting, etc. On the other hand, there is a small technical detail that makes some ticking: The choice of connectors for recharging mobile devices.
MF19: The last bastion of USB-A?
For several years now, many public transport vehicles for large metropolises (bus, tram or metro) have included USB charging ports. This will of course be the case of the MF19, but These ports will be in USB-Aa very familiar connection that we find on our traditional USB keys, but which may seem somewhat outdated today.
Indeed, the European Union imposed USB-C as unique standard For smartphones since December 31, 2024. Regulations which mainly concern phones, but which also extends to a multitude of other devices such as tablets, electronic readers, digital cameras, headphones, consoles Portable games and portable speakers.
To take advantage of the recharge in future MF19 trains, you will therefore have to transport old cables with you, unless you have a USB-A USB-A adapter. This choice of connectors can appear a little incoherent, but it is explained quite easily and for once, You can’t throw the stone at the RATP.
To understand why the MF19 is not equipped thus, you have to go back to the genesis of the project. A spokesperson from Île-de-France Mobilités specifies: ” The order dates from 2016-2017, with a start of construction in 2019 ». At that time, the USB-A still reigned supreme and the USB-C had not yet been adopted as European standard. The modification of the oars already in manufacturing has not been envisaged to avoid any delay in the deployment.
Let it be said: it is better to oars delivered in time To invigorate the aging Parisian network that trains put into service with delay for this simple question of ports. Move quickly in the capital is essential, recharging your devices is a little less.
- The Paris metro is modernizing with the arrival of the MF19 from 2025 on several lines, replacing aging oars.
- These new trains will offer modern equipment, including Wi-Fi and screens, but will integrate USB-A charging ports and not in USB-C.
- This technical choice is explained by an order placed in 2016, long before the adoption of the European standard, and will not be changed to avoid delays in delivery.
