TIC Trens Revolutionizes São Paulo’s Suburban Rail with Bold Takeover of Line Seven and Ambitious Thirty-Year Transformation Plan: All You Need to Know

Published on December 6, 2025

In a historic shift that marks a new chapter for São Paulo’s suburban railway system, TIC Trens has officially taken over the operation and maintenance of the bustling 57 km Line 7-Ruby. This monumental change occurred on November 26, 2025, when TIC Trens assumed control from the state-owned operator CPTM. The takeover is not just a routine change of operators—it is the beginning of an exciting phase that will see this vital transportation route undergo major reconstruction and revitalisation.

TIC Trens is a joint venture between Comporte Participações, a local transport group, and CRRC Hong Kong, a prominent global player in the rail industry. This partnership has been instrumental in shaping the future of urban transport in São Paulo. TIC Trens’ role goes far beyond simply managing the rail line—it involves ambitious plans for upgrading and expanding the entire network, including modernising stations and replacing old tracks.

TIC Trens’ Role in the Transformation of Line 7

The transformation of Line 7, known as the Ruby Line, is one of the most significant transport projects in São Paulo in recent years. Line 7 stretches from Palmeiras-Barra Funda in the heart of São Paulo to Jundiaí, located in the outskirts of the city. For many, this line is a vital part of their daily commute, connecting them to jobs, schools, and various essential services. It is a lifeline for tens of thousands of passengers every day.

With the transfer of operations to TIC Trens, the Ruby Line is set to undergo an ambitious reconstruction. TIC Trens will be responsible for rebuilding all 17 stations along the route, a task that will begin in May 2026. These stations, which currently serve as busy hubs for commuters, will be modernised to improve passenger experience, accessibility, and overall comfort. The upgrade will include new platforms, improved signage, better facilities, and more modern amenities for users.

A Vision for the Future: Reconstructing Stations and Tracks

In addition to the station upgrades, TIC Trens is also committed to overhauling the track infrastructure. A crucial part of the project involves replacing 10 km of track between December 2025 and November 2026. This work is essential to ensure the reliability and safety of the rail system for years to come. Older, worn-out tracks will be replaced with new, state-of-the-art ones that meet modern safety standards and can support faster, more efficient trains.

The construction of these new tracks is a critical part of TIC Trens’ long-term vision to improve the suburban rail system. It aims to increase the frequency of trains, reduce delays, and improve the overall quality of service for passengers. The railway’s alignment and infrastructure will be enhanced to allow for smoother, faster journeys, making commuting a more efficient and enjoyable experience for all.

A New Fleet: 30 State-of-the-Art Trains

TIC Trens will also be taking charge of a fleet of 30 eight-car 9500 Series electric multiple-units. These modern trains were built by Hyundai Rotem, a South Korean manufacturer renowned for producing cutting-edge rail vehicles. These new trains are designed to offer a higher level of comfort, speed, and reliability. They will replace older models that have been in use for years, providing passengers with a smoother and more pleasant ride.

The 9500 Series trains are equipped with advanced technologies that will enhance the overall performance of Line 7. They are designed to be energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and reliable under varying weather conditions. Their modern design and updated features make them ideal for handling the increasing demands of suburban rail travel in São Paulo, especially as the city’s population continues to grow.

The History Behind Line 7 and Its Recent Changes

Line 7’s journey has been a dynamic one, shaped by several changes in recent years. Following the amalgamation of Lines 7 and 10 in May 2021, the service operated under the name Line 710, which connected Rio Grande da Serra to Jundiaí. This merger was part of efforts to streamline operations, but the concessioning of the network soon led to the separation of the lines once again.

The operational separation of Line 7 from other lines in the network was carried out at Barra Funda station, marking a new chapter for Line 7 as an independent service. This change was necessary to allow for more efficient operations and better management of services, particularly as the line’s infrastructure undergoes significant upgrades. The separation of the lines ensures that services can be tailored to meet the specific needs of passengers travelling along the Line 7 route.

A 30-Year Concession: TIC Trens’ Commitment to São Paulo

One of the most significant aspects of TIC Trens’ involvement with Line 7 is its 30-year concession. This long-term agreement solidifies the operator’s commitment to the ongoing development and maintenance of São Paulo’s suburban rail network. Over the course of the next three decades, TIC Trens will be responsible for ensuring that Line 7 runs efficiently and safely for millions of passengers.

The 30-year concession also includes the development of a new inter-city service along the São Paulo–Campinas freight line, which spans 101 km. This service will operate on separate tracks designed specifically for passenger travel, further expanding the region’s rail network and improving connections between cities. The creation of this service will also encourage economic development by improving the accessibility of São Paulo’s surrounding areas.

The Future of São Paulo’s Rail System

TIC Trens’ takeover of Line 7 represents just the beginning of an exciting future for São Paulo’s rail system. The company’s extensive plans for upgrading the infrastructure, introducing new technology, and improving services are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the city’s transport network. As part of its commitment to making the suburban railway system more efficient, TIC Trens will continue to invest in new technologies and innovations that will enhance the passenger experience.

In addition to the upgrades to Line 7, the new inter-city service between São Paulo and Campinas will provide much-needed improvements to inter-city transport. This project is expected to relieve congestion on roads, reduce travel times, and offer passengers a more comfortable and efficient way to travel between these major cities. The new passenger service will not only improve connectivity but also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of road transport.

Economic and Social Impact of TIC Trens’ Investment

TIC Trens’ investment in the suburban rail network has the potential to deliver significant economic and social benefits to São Paulo and its surrounding areas. Improved rail services will make it easier for people to commute, access education, and participate in the local economy. As travel times are reduced and the comfort of the journey is improved, more people will be encouraged to use public transport, which will lead to a decrease in the number of cars on the road and, ultimately, reduced traffic congestion.

This shift towards more sustainable transport will also have positive effects on the environment. By modernising the rail infrastructure and introducing energy-efficient trains, TIC Trens will help lower emissions and improve the overall sustainability of São Paulo’s transport system. As the city grows and its population increases, these improvements will play a crucial role in ensuring that the city’s transport network can keep up with demand without negatively impacting the environment.

The Takeaway: A Bright Future for São Paulo’s Suburban Rail

TIC Trens’ takeover of São Paulo’s Line 7 is a game-changer for the city’s suburban rail system. With its bold plans for station upgrades, track replacement, new trains, and a commitment to sustainability, TIC Trens is poised to make a lasting impact on São Paulo’s transport network. Over the next 30 years, the company’s vision for a modern, efficient, and sustainable rail system will transform the daily commuting experience for millions of people.

As São Paulo continues to grow and evolve, TIC Trens’ efforts to modernise the Ruby Line will play a key role in shaping the future of urban transport in the city. The revitalisation of Line 7 is just the beginning of what promises to be a new era for São Paulo’s suburban railways, with improved services, better infrastructure, and a focus on sustainability. The transformation of this essential rail line will not only enhance the lives of commuters but also set a new standard for urban transport in Brazil.

This is a thrilling time for São Paulo, and as TIC Trens moves forward with its ambitious plans, the city’s suburban rail network is poised to enter an exciting new phase of development and innovation.