Metro M5: Designing the next generation of urban mobility in Copenhagen

Commissioned by Metroselskabet, Metro M5 is a central part of the Danish capital’s long-term transport vision. The new line will reduce pressure on existing metro lines (especially M1 and M2), unlock development in eastern Copenhagen, and prepare the network for future regional integration - including a possible cross-border link to Malmö in Sweden.

To set the project on the right track, Metroselskabet appointed Ramboll, in collaboration with SYSTRA and Gottlieb Paludan Architects, to set functional requirements for the transportation system and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the M5 line. The assignment focused not only on technical feasibility, but also on long-term resilience, user experience, and carbon performance.

Engineering for impact

The design of M5 responds to several of Copenhagen’s core goals: improving connectivity, reducing emissions, enhancing liveability, and strengthening the metro system’s operational robustness.

Ramboll and its partners are developing the complete system requirements, covering rolling stock, permanent way, traction power, power supply, signalling (CBTC), SCADA, communications, control centre, and platform screen door systems. The team also modelled a variety of operational scenarios and headways to ensure the system would perform reliably under varying passenger loads.

A key feature of the design is a scalable Control and Maintenance Centre (CMC) for 15 three-car (39m) trains but with a possible extension to 50 four-car (50m). Sustainability and economic viability were embedded from the outset through early-stage carbon and cost assessments.

To support environmental approvals and public dialogue, our team provided robust technical documentation and led stakeholder engagement.

Digital tools driving collaboration

The M5 conceptual design was delivered using a suite of advanced digital tools. Model-based design (BIM) was used to coordinate disciplines, visualise system layouts, and facilitate decision-making across stakeholders. GIS platforms supported geospatial planning, risk analysis, and alignment assessments. Lifecycle carbon and cost models enabled early-stage scenario testing, helping prioritise low-impact design choices. These tools collectively ensured transparency, consistency, and a data-driven approach throughout the process.

Peter Aarkrog, Project Director for Ramboll, explains, “M5 is more than a metro line - it’s an opportunity to rethink how mobility systems can support sustainable growth in our cities. From the very beginning, we’ve worked to ensure that technical quality, carbon responsibility, and long-term adaptability are embedded into every decision.”

Setting a new standard

The Metro M5 project demonstrates what’s possible when system design is driven by purpose and performance in equal measure. The work done during the conceptual design phase lays the foundation for future approvals, funding, procurement, and delivery - with Ramboll’s insights helping inform not just what M5 will be, but what metro systems can achieve in the 21st century.

As Copenhagen continues to lead on sustainable urban development, Metro M5 will serve as a critical piece of the puzzle: connecting neighbourhoods, reducing carbon, and keeping the city moving - smartly, safely, and sustainably.