Warsaw has announced a tender to purchase 160 new trams, accelerating the modernization of its public transport system. The initiative aims to increase passenger comfort and increase the number of low-floor tram models. The city is taking an important step towards the digitalization and sustainability goals of public transport.
Contract Details and Tram Features
The trams to be delivered by the companies participating in the tender will be in two different models: single-cabin 64 and double-cabin 96. Initially, a firm order will be placed for 20 units of the first type of trams, but this number can be expanded. The new trams will have various features that will increase passenger comfort.
- Single Cabin Trams: It will have a capacity to carry 230 to 288 standing passengers and offer 56 seats.
- Double Cabin Trams: It has a capacity to carry 235 to 295 standing passengers and provides seating for 42 people.
By comparison, the previously supplied Hyundai Rotem Warsolino trams had only 31 seats in their double-cab versions, while the new vehicles offer more seating space and modern features.
Comfort and Safety Features
All new trams will be equipped with comfortable eco-leather seats and USB charging ports for passengers. The vehicles will also be equipped with modern air conditioning and heating systems and advanced technologies to increase passenger safety. The trams will also feature collision prevention systems and driver attention monitoring technologies. The energy storage system inside will enable passage through sections not connected to the electricity grid.
Accessibility and Design
Warsaw’s new trams have been designed with accessibility in mind. The optimum model is a fully low-floor tram with a length of 33 metres. However, variations with adjustable floor heights are also available. The floor height on the end bogies is up to 590 mm, while in the middle section it can be reduced to 520 mm. Retractable steps will allow passengers to board and disembark easily at different platform heights.
Double-cab trams will be equipped with five double-wing doors on each side, at least 1300 mm wide. Single-cab models are planned to have additional single-wing doors, at least 650 mm wide.
Delivery and Future Plans
The manufacturer must deliver 28 trams within 20 months of signing the contract. The first two trams are expected to enter service within 24 months. These new trams will be used on Warsaw's 324,8 tram lines, totaling 22 km.
The new fleet is expected to make Warsaw’s public transport infrastructure more efficient and modern, while increasing comfort for passengers. The city’s transport network is expected to be more accessible and sustainable in the future.
