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THE INTERNATIONAL LIGHT RAIL MAGAZINE
www.lrta.org
www.tautonline.com
SEPTEMBER 2020 N o . 993
a lighter future?
VLR to trial in 2021
Coventry’s vision for affordable, accessible LRT
Regulators agree Bombardier takeover
Dismay as Sutton extension is ‘paused’
Berlin approves 15-year transport plan
Vienna Russia
£4.60
A Euro a day to battle Reversing decline one
climate change used tram at a time...
2020
Do you know of a project, product or person
worthy of recognition on the global stage?
LAST CHANCE TO ENTER!
SUPPORTED BY
ColTram
www.lightrailawards.com
CONTENTS The official journal of the Light Rail
351
Transit Association
SEPTEMBER 2020 Vol. 83 No. 993
www.tautonline.com
EDITORIAL
345 Editor – Simon Johnston
simon@mainspring.co.uk
Associate Editor – Tony Streeter
tony.streeter@mainspring.co.uk
Worldwide Editor – Michael Taplin
miketap@mainspring.co.uk
News Editor – John Symons
johnsymons@mainspring.co.uk
Senior Contributor – Neil Pulling
Worldwide Contributors
Richard Felski, Ed Havens, Andrew Moglestue,
Paul Nicholson, Herbert Pence, Mike Russell,
Nikolai Semyonov, Alain Senut, Vic Simons,
364 Witold Urbanowicz, Bill Vigrass, Francis Wagner,
Thomas Wagner, Philip Webb, Rick Wilson
Production – Lanna Blyth
News 332 systems factfile: ulm 351 Tel: +44 (0)1733 367604
EC approves Alstom-Bombardier takeover; How the metre-gauge tramway in a production@mainspring.co.uk
Sutton extension paused as TfL crisis bites; southern German city expanded from a DESIGN – Debbie Nolan
Further UK emergency funding confirmed; small survivor through popular support. Advertising
Berlin announces EUR19bn award for BVG. COMMERCIAL Manager – Geoff Butler
WORLDWIDE REVIEW 356 Tel: +44 (0)1733 367610
Vienna fights climate change 337 Athens opens metro line 3 extension; Cyclone geoff@mainspring.co.uk
Wiener Linien’s Karin Schwarz on how devastates Kolkata network; tramways Publisher – Matt Johnston
Austria’s capital is bouncing back from extended in Gda ńsk and Szczecin; UK Tramways & Urban Transit
lockdown and ‘building back better’. Parliament petitioned on climate law; Work 13 Orton Enterprise Centre, Bakewell Road,
begins on Los Angeles’ Gold line extension. Peterborough PE2 6XU, UK
coventry’s mobility vision 340 Tramways & Urban Transit is published by Mainspring
Nicola Small and Dr Nick Mallinson share MAILBOX 362 on behalf of the LRTA on the third Friday of each
the vision of a UK city that hopes to radically More background on Tramlink; memories month preceding the cover date.
change the way it moves. of Curt Elmberg; and... without passengers,
how long can we last?
Renewal in russia 345
PRINT AND DISTRIBUTION
Luc Koenet explores the growing role of CLASSICS TRAMS: dunedin 364 Warners (Midlands), Bourne, Lincs PE10 9PH, UK
Russia’s private sector – and how Moscow’s How a New Zealand city plans to bring back
gifts are keeping other city tramways alive. its cable-worked cars. Mac Gardner explains. LRTA MEMBERSHIP (with TAUT subscription)
Tramways & Urban Transit is sent free to all paid-up
members of the Light Rail Transit Association.
Without heritage and wise experience we are all poorer LRTA WEBSITE AND DIARY
Brian Lomas
Rather than talking about the politics, finances or other high-level effects of webmaster@lrta.org meetings@lrta.org
the coronavirus crisis, let’s kick off this month by considering a less obvious
consequence of the pandemic that has the very real prospect of hitting us all Subscriptions, MEMBERSHIP and back issues
LRTA Membership Secretary (Dept T06), 38 Wolseley
hard without us even realising – our heritage and skills.
Road, Sale M33 7AU, UK. Tel: +44 (0)117 951 7785
I know many astonishing older people who still dedicate themselves to our membership@lrta.org Website: www.lrta.info
industry, not because they are paid the same as when they worked full-time – but because
they are passionate and have ‘been there, done that’. Often, there won’t be an obvious for CORPORATE Subscriptions VISIT
www.mainspring.co.uk
solution when fixing a system that was installed 100, 50 or even 25 years ago: knowing how
best to respond requires instinct and experience. So without Fred, Claire, Dieter or Juan LRTA REGISTERED OFFICE
around, just how much institutional knowledge are we at risk of losing? Documents can be 8 Berwick Place, Welwyn Garden City, Herts, AL7 4TU, UK.
Private company limited by guarantee, No. 5072319
produced, manuals written (although sometimes they aren’t or haven’t been, and can never
in England and Wales.
cover every possibility – just remember where we are now). So how is this crucial information
LRTA Chairman – Paul Rowen
being captured and fed through the system? After all, experience lives in people’s heads.
chair@lrta.org
Such wise heads have contributed much to the continued operation of transport
systems during these past few months. These are people who have lived through crises © LRTA 2020
before and can offer valuable guidance on how to ‘keep calm and carry on’. They share Articles are submitted on the understanding they may also
later be used on our websites or other media. A contribution
their time and learning, offer practical engineering or operational solutions, or even
is accepted on the basis that its author is responsible for the
just act as a sounding board. Such resource is invaluable – but with shielding and other opinions expressed in it, and such opinions are not those of
restrictions many have recently been removed from circulation. Safety and well-being the LRTA or Mainspring. All rights reserved.
must come first of course, but there is no substitute for in-person interactions. And while No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in
there are some very, very good people ‘coming up’ through our industry, there really is no any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording or by any information storage and
replacement for real-world education.
retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from
This vital knowledge – and often volunteer labour! – is similarly key to keeping our own the copyright owner. Multiple copying of the contents of the
transport heritage alive. I fear for the continued existence of such important institutions magazine without prior written approval is not permitted.
if the doors remain closed, visitors aren’t attending, and willing and capable indiviudals
are not allowed to indulge their passions. As we have said before, please consider
COVER: Coventry's innovative Very Light Rail vehicle
supporting your nearest museum or working heritage tramline: without celebrating and technology is expected to hit the tracks for trials
maintaining our heritage we are all so much poorer. Simon Johnston, Editor during 2021. Courtesy of WMG
www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org SEPTEMBER 2020 / 331
News
EC approves Alstom-Bombardier deal
Concessions on high-speed trains, signalling and production facilities ease the path of takeover
O
n 31 July the European February. Under the deal, CDPQ
Commission gave (Caisse de dépôt et placement du
conditional approval Québec), which currently holds
to Alstom’s proposed a 32.5% stake in BT, will become
acquisition of Bombardier Alstom’s largest shareholder with
Transportation (BT), a decision around 18% of capital. CDPQ will
welcomed by both companies. reinvest EUR2bn in Alstom as
Two weeks previously, Alstom well as investing an additional
announced its response to the EUR700m. Bouygues will remain
EC’s questions about the planned a 10% shareholder in Alstom.
EUR6.2bn takeover, offering The takeover will reshape
commitments designed to the worldwide rail market, with
overcome concerns over reduced some commentators suggesting
competition, in particular that the need for approval was
around railway rolling stock driven by a need to secure long-
and signalling. These were: the term employment given the
transfer of the Bombardier V300 economic instability caused by
Zefiro high-speed train (built in the coronavirus pandemic.
Italy) to a third party (Hitachi) Maria Leenen, Managing
Amongst Alstom’s trams are the short Citadis for the French city of Avignon, seen
as well an IP licence for Hitachi Director of industry analyst
running on this traditional street tramway in Avenue St Ruf. P. Haseldine
to use the Zefiro in future UK SCI -Verkehr, said: “The approval
tenders; the sale of Alstom’s sale of the Reichshoffen factory, main line trains and main line is surprising given the strong
Coradia Polyvalent EMU and its which employs around 800. signalling, the Commission has market presence of the new
French factory at Reichshoffen; The EC has accepted these been able to speedily review and company in important vehicle
divestment of the Bombardier conditions as part of its approval. approve this transaction.” segments and countries, and
Talent 3 EMU and dedicated “Alstom and Bombardier are Completion of the acquisition the critical stance that the EU
production facilities at Berlin leading providers of state-of- is expected in the first half of Competition Commission had
Hennigsdorf; access for third the-art trains used every day by 2021, giving Alstom access to the taken during the attempted
parties to interfaces for some of millions of passengers across the largest train fleet in the world, Alstom-Siemens deal.
BT’s onboard signalling units European Union,” said Margrethe although Chinese conglomerate “To what extent the European
and train control systems. Vestager, Vice-President of the CRRC is still the largest vehicle railways will be pleased with
These concessions were only EU Competition Commission. manufacturer. It is understood the new champion, who today
briefed to staff and unions on “Thanks to the comprehensive that concerns were not raised in supplies 70% of the multiple
the same day, and did not win remedies offered to solve the respect of the urban rail market. units in Germany and almost
universal approval, with French competition concerns in the Alstom announced its plan 100% of the market in France,
unions concerned about the areas of very high-speed, to acquire 100% of BT shares in remains to be seen.”
Schwebebahn closure București confirms tram orders
results in new lawsuit Societatea de Transport
București (STB) has awarded
Electroputere VFU the contract
an initial award to Turkish
manufacturer Durmazlar by
the National Council for the
Weekday service on Wuppertal’s It is now preparing a lawsuit to supply 40 18m low-floor Settlement of Appeals (CNSC).
Schwebebahn was suspended against manufacturer Vossloh- trams for the Romanian A re-examination of
from 12 August to permit urgent Kiepe, seeking damages related capital, with an option for Durmazlar’s submission
repairs, due to excessive wear to loss of income, increased a further 60 cars. The Craiova- revealed that its Panorama
from the wheels on the 31 new expenditure for repairs, expert based company beat a rival did not meet the technical
GTW15 trains delivered over the reports and consequential costs bid lodged by a joint venture specification. The city will now
last five years. As well as damage due to damage to the structure. of Astra Vagoane Calatori and receive 100 Astra Imperio
to the wheels, rail breaks and “The lawsuit is our last resort, CRRC Qingdao Sifang. low-floor trams; the company
damage have been found on the but after four years of suffering This is separate to the is again working in partnership
119-year-old suspended railway’s for us and our passengers, we RON845.7m (EUR177m) with CRRC Qingdao Sifang.
support structures. see no other option,” said WSW deal for a new fleet of 36m
Service is to continue at Supervisory Board Chairman articulated low-floor trams, For a detailed review of the
weekends, with test runs Dietmar Bell. also confirmed in July city’s tramway and metro
scheduled on weekdays to following the overturning of networks, see TAUT 987.
evaluate different wheel profiles.
The problem is unlikely to be
fully resolved until summer
2021; bus replacement services
Ekova Electric joins the Škoda family
will help to fill in the gaps. Ostrava undertaking Dopravní for trams, trolleybuses and
Operator WSW Mobil says podnik Ostrava has sold tram and buses, including new vehicles,
it has identified around 200 bus maintenance division Ekova investing CZK300m (EUR11.5m)
issues with the new vehicles, Electric to Škoda Transportation in expansion and modernisation
including problems with door for CZK416.3m (EUR15.8m). of the facilities, including
mechanisms, air-conditioning Deliveries of Wuppertal’s new GTW15 Škoda will develop Ostrava additional stabling tracks and
and software malfunctions. cars began in late 2015. N. Pulling as a centre for competence adding a further 100 employees.
332 / september 2020 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org
Sutton tram extension plan paused
TfL funding crisis bites with DLR expansion and
RD
D
A
OO
HIG
DR
Croydon tram replacement also on hold HS
HAY
’S W
T
AN
ER
EX
DONS
LI
AL
W
OL
Wimbledon
TC
ROAD
ork on the Sutton are underway – the first of which TH
HS
E BROADWAY
extension of is being undertaken by the
IG
H
Dundonald Road
Croydon’s tramway Department for Transport (DfT)
D
A
Colliers
RO
GH ST
(UK) has been with consultant KPMG, and the MERTON HI
E
Wood
PL
OR
put on hold, with uncertainty second by the city’s Mayor.
W
Merton Park
morden
also raised over potential fleet At the time the coronavirus AD
WE
ST
RO ER
replacement, as Transport for emergency package was unveiled TO
N
CHUR
GS
N
London (TfL) reviews its current in May, Mayor Sadiq Khan IN
RO
AD
K Morden Road
CH
projects to ensure it returns said the following months D Phipps
road
BUSHEY ROA
ROAD
to a stable long-term financial would have to see negotiation M
Bridge
AR Morden
footing. of “a new funding model with TI
GRAND DRIVE
NW
Other future projects for the government” involving either AY
UK capital under threat include central government funding, Belgrave
Walk
the extension of the Docklands local taxes, or both (TAUT 991).
AD
Light Railway to Thamesmead In a sign of the scale of
RO
DON
and of the Bakerloo Underground TfL’s challenges, non-urgent Mitcham
D
A
RO
ON
line. Together with Crossrail 2 infrastructure work has been L
TR
AL to
N
and West London Orbital deferred, and the Central and CE Croydon
AVENUE
Rail, these are among schemes Bakerloo line fleet renewal
AD
GR
EE
identified by the authority as programmes as well as Piccadilly
RO
AD
R
TU N
ST.HELIE
LA
D
R
RO
DOR
currently lacking funding in its line resignalling scheme slowed. DR FO
PS
M
IV
NE
SO
HO
draft revised budget, presented However, completing Crossrail S
EP
BI
on 29 July. The report stated: remains a priority, and work is E SU
TT
ON
“We need to be realistic in continuing on the Northern CO
M W
discussions with Government line Tube extension to Battersea, AV
RY
T
MO
TE HE
about what will be affordable design work for new Piccadilly GA LA
NR
EI NE
AD
R
over the next decade and we
OA
line and DLR rolling stock, and
RO
D
L
london
cannot currently afford to the Bank station upgrade.
IL
ROSE H
progress them all.” The DfT review is expected
However, in an indication to offer options on how to
AD
RO
that the Sutton tram extension strengthen TfL’s finances over
DS
EL
may never now be delivered, TfL the remainder of 2020-21 and DF
I
HIGH ST
OL
explained development work had 2021-22. However, it will also
WES
been paused as the “transport consider more radical options Sutton extension
T ST
case is poor and there remains a intended to achieve a sustainable
significant funding gap”. position by the end of the current Existing tramline
In the short-term, TfL was business plan period in 2024-25: Existing rail line SHALTON RO
AD
CAR
granted GBP1.6bn (EUR1.77bn) Options for maximising
HILL
London Underground CH EAM RD
in government grants and loans revenue and non-fare based
PARK
Sutton
in May to keep services running income; revenue yield
until October. However, the choices; and changes to road
authority estimates it will need up user charging schemes as from the DLR to Tube lines Reviewing the balance sheet
to GBP3.5bn (EUR3.87bn)to cover foreshadowed in the Mayor’s that are already automatic and financing structure of TfL
its needs for a full financial year. transport strategy Reviewing the prioritisation TfL’s draft revised budget is
With estimated debts of GBP12bn Further operational of capital spending available at http://content.tfl.
(EUR13.3bn), parallel reviews efficiencies, including Reviewing the current gov.uk/board-20200729-item09-
into TfL’s future sustainability extending driverless operation operating model finance-report-revised-budget.pdf
Broadway Subway NEWS IN PICTURES
Dubai inaugurates
consortium confirmed Expo 2020 link
The 15km (9.3-mile) Red line
Vancouver’s 5.7km (3.5-mile) delivered through a Design- metro branch to the Expo 2020
Millennium line metro extension Build-Finance model, with the site via the airport was formally
from VCC-Clark to Broadway Transportation Investment Corp. inaugurated by His Highness
and Arbutus will be built mostly leading delivery on behalf of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
RTA
underground on Broadway by Ministry of Transportation and Al Maktoum, Vice President
and Prime Minister of the UAE
an Acciona-led consortium Infrastructure. Construction is
and Ruler of Dubai, on 8 July. The AED11bn (EUR2.5bn) expansion is due to
for CAD2.83bn (EUR1.79bn), to begin later this year. open for revenue service in September. The project, a continuation from the
it was announced 17 July. Once open in 2025, the existing Jebel Ali station, includes 11.8km (7.3 miles) of elevated tracks and a
Financed by the Government commute from VCC-Clark 3.2km (two-mile) underground section, with six intermediate stations.
of British Columbia, with Station to Arbutus Station will Alstom has supplied 50 five-car Metropolis trains to supplement the
contributions from both the city take 11 minutes, it is claimed, existing fleet of 79 Kinki Sharyo trains. With the opening of Route 2020, the
and Canadian governments, the also relieving traffic congestion total length of the Dubai Metro will increase to 90km (56 miles).
Broadway Subway project is being along Broadway.
www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org september 2020 / 333
News
More emergency funds for UK LRT
Announcements in England and Scotland to support systems badly hit by pandemic-related losses
A
further GBP37.4m agency explaining: “The latest the period from July to the end Parliament’s House of Commons.
(EUR41.5m) in round of funding – key to safely of September. The deadline for submissions is
emergency funding getting young people back in SPT has however said the grant 24 September and the committee
for light rail systems education settings and workers is unlikely to be enough to avert is particularly interested in
in England was confirmed on back to their offices – means total significant public transport cuts considering the potential effects
8 August, supporting services support during the pandemic for and there is concern that no of the pandemic for:
for another 12 weeks. The bus and tram services will reach allowance has been made for the The use of public transport
Department for Transport at least GBP700m [EUR777m].” period from March to June when and the way that people
(DfT) announcement is part The total allocations for each traffic levels were as much as 97% choose to travel, both locally
of a package that includes up system, including the new lower than pre-lockdown levels. and for longer journeys
to GBP218.4m (EUR242.5m) grants, are as follows, and will be SPT had previously highlighted Central and local
for bus operators over the next paid directly to operators: Greater a potential deficit of between governmental priorities and
eight weeks as public transport Manchester Metrolink: GBP44m GBP5.6-9m (EUR6.2-10m) to funding for transport
services are ramped up in (EUR48.9m); Tyne and Wear Transport Scotland in the first Devolution of transport
the expectation of increased Metro GBP24.7m (EUR27.4m); 12 weeks of lockdown. There is policy-making responsibilities
ridership in September. Nottingham Express Transit currently no known structure in and powers
Passenger numbers across all GBP12.1m (EUR13.4m); Sheffield place post-September. Resilience of the transport
modes have fallen dramatically Supertram GBP6.8m (EUR7.6m), Also subject to a separate system for future crises
due to the coronavirus pandemic West Midlands Metro GBP5.7m funding deal is Transport for Decarbonisation and the
that began in March, with most (EUR6.3m). London (TfL). A GBP1.6bn capability to meet net zero
services still at less than 20% of Following much criticism (EUR1.77bn) emergency grant emissions targets by 2050
normal levels. of the lack of an equivalent and loan package was agreed Innovation and
COVID-19 funds are paid from scheme in Scotland (TAUT 992), with the DfT in May to keep the technological reform.
central government sources, the devolved administration UK capital’s services operating
in arrears and on a four-weekly there has announced support until October. From 22 June, the Scottish
basis. The previous tranche was of up to GBP9m (EUR10m) The longer-term implications Government made it mandatory
due to expire on 28 August. for Strathclyde Partnership of the pandemic on public to wear a face covering on public
The financing packages from for Transport (which runs the transport services are to be transport; the measure is now in
the DfT only cover systems in Glasgow Subway) and Edinburgh considered by the Transport place across all the UK’s light
England, with the government Trams. That money is to cover Select Committee of the UK rail systems.
Hannover 601 returns
to its home metals
Fifty years ago, on 10 July 1970, reason was that the first subway
the German city of Hannover put opened in 1975, and used a fleet
two prototype six-axle articulated of Duewag Stadtbahn cars that
Stadtbahn cars on its tracks, car were high-floor with folding
600 from Linke-Hofmann-Busch steps. The decision to adopt 2.4m
(LHB) and car 601 from Duewag. rather than 2.5m minimised
As with the U2 design in rebuilding to upgrade the surface
Frankfurt-am-Main, the network to Stadtbahn standards.
two Hannover cars were a So 601 was sent to Canada by
consequence of the 1965 decision Duewag to act as a demonstrator
to upgrade the conventional in the city of Vancouver, at the
tramway with subways in the city time debating how to introduce
centre that would feature high an LRT network in time for the
On 3 July 2020 car 601 ran outside the depot on the Hannover system, in
platforms for level boarding, Expo ’86 World Fair. In the end, readiness for its Golden Jubilee a few days later.A. Fischer
but require folding steps to use a decision was made to go for an
low-level surface stops. They were Intermediate Capacity Transit River from Strathcona to Jasper and an ex-Melbourne W2,
double-ended to permit turn-backs System (ICTS), the proprietary Plaza. Operation started with a and was receptive to an
without loops, 19.5m-long and Urban Transit Development preserved Osaka tram in October enquiry expressing interest in
2.4m-wide, 150mm wider than Corporation’s automated Linear 1979, while sponsorship was repatriating the car to complete
the existing tram fleet. Induction Motor mini-metro obtained from Siemens Canada the historical collection of
Car 600 was scrapped after that was christened Skytrain. to restore 601. Förderverein Strassenbahn
being returned to LHB, but 601 has As a result 601 was stored in a In September 1998 car 601 ran Hannover (FSH).
crossed the Atlantic twice; now, BC Hydro shed until 1988 when for the first time in 23 years, being ERRS sold it to FSH for CAD1,
on its 50th anniversary it could be it was sold to the Edmonton tested on the Edmonton Transit and in October 2016 it was
seen on Hannover tracks again. Radial Railway Society (ERRS), LRT line (ironically operated with shipped back to Germany and
Car 601, which features the an organisation created to restore Frankfurt-style U2 cars) between posed in front of Hannover’s
Simatic control system (600 and operate historic trams in Fort Clareview and University. Döhren workshop. Further
had Geamatic), did not carry Edmonton Park. The society had a In 2005, it then carried restoration has taken place, with
passengers in Hannover for project to operate a public service passengers over the High assistance from Üstra, including
many years; it could be seen on across the former Canadian Level Bridge for the first modifying the original Simatic
line 14 between Oberricklingen Pacific Railway High Level time. By this time ERRS had system to permit usage under the
and Kirchrode until 1975. The Bridge over the Saskatchewan a restored Edmonton tram current Stadtbahn safety systems.
334 / september 2020 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org
Berlin approves EUR19bn BVG award
New 15-year direct contract award includes provisions for over EUR5bn in new investment
T
he Berlin Senate has average of EUR300m per year on
approved a 15-year vehicles and infrastructure; this
EUR19bn direct is set to rise to EUR800m/year
contract award to with new trams and metro trains
Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) to both renew and expand its
to provide public transit services respective fleets.
for the German capital from In response to the coronavirus
1 September. pandemic, the contract
The majority of the contract includes a financing guarantee
(EUR12.7bn) is allocated to whereby the state will cover all
operations and subsidised services pandemic-related losses until
for students and passengers the first revision in 2024. In a
with limited mobility. The tariff related move, responsibility
compensation totals EUR3.1bn. for enforcing mandatory face
Also included are EUR2bn for the covering rules is transferring
construction of new tramlines, to BVG from the city’s police
to provide for a 40% expansion department.
of the network, EUR1.7bn for “This transport contract
maintenance and renovation marks the beginning of a new
projects, and EUR600m for era of investment,” said Berlin
ongoing projects such as the Senator for the environment,
BVG’s latest U-Bahn rolling stock is currently being delivered; new IK20 trains
2.2km (1.4-mile) U5 U-Bahn from Stadler Pankow entered service on U5 in June. UndergroundBerlin
transport and climate protection,
extension from Alexanderplatz Regine Günther. “This is
to Brandenburg Gate. charging infrastructure. The announcement is exactly the right way to make
A further EUR2bn is to support Federal grants are expected to designed to help remedy years of public transport so attractive
transport decarbonisation efforts, bolster these investments, but under-investment in the capital’s that Berliners and their guests
including the introduction of exact contributions are still to transport network. Over the last will make the switch from
227 electric buses and associated be confirmed. decade, BVG has invested an private cars.”
Praha’s new identity NEWS IN PICTURES PK TS unveils new tram cab
with extra safety features
On 3 August, a new unified currently includes 27 operators, Russia’s PC Transport Systems
identity for public transport 67 types of vehicle and at least (PK Transportnye Systemy) has
in Praha (Prague) and the 12 different liveries. revealed details of a new tram driver’s
cab format that includes advanced
surrounding regions was The new red, white and light
driver assistance systems, a single
unveiled. The Czech capital grey livery will be applied to all emergency shutdown button, and
region’s integrated transport new vehicles. To reduce costs it automatic braking functions that can
network (known as PID) will only be applied to existing detect if the driver’s seat isn’t occupied.
trams, metro cars, buses and “We plan to install the new cabin
regional rail trains when they into trams that will be operated both
are overhauled or require repair. in Russia and abroad. As the cabin
Introduction of the branding will and tram body are manufactured
separately and integrated during the
begin this year and is expected to
final assembly, no additional body
take 15 years to complete. changes are needed. This modular
Addressing concerns of a loss approach allows for the production of
of the city’s transport heritage, various tram modifications, depending
it has been confirmed that the on the order,” said Felix Vinokur, PC
iconic red of the city’s Tatra T3 Transport Systems President.
The striking new three-colour design,
PK TS
trams and their modernised The first modular cabs are due to be
modelled here by one of the city’s
sub-types will remain. completed later this year.
Škoda 14T trams. Superlative.works
‘World first’ biomethane ULR car on test US associations publish
A demonstration Ultra Light Movers Class 139 railcar with free new safety guides
Rail Vehicle using a mixture of a new bogie frame, driveline, A comprehensive list of suppliers
of safety and protective
biomethane and kinetic energy powertrain and fuelling system;
equipment to help the US public
storage was demonstrated at the other project partners include transport sector respond to and
Motorail test track facility in Alternatech, Biomethane recover from the coronavirus
Long Marston (UK) on 22 July. Ltd, Severn Lamb, Pre Metro crisis has been published by the
The ‘Bristol Biomethane’ Operations and the Dudley American Public Transportation
project, claimed to be the first of College of Technology, as well as Association (APTA) and the
its kind, has been made possible support from IDEA Institute at Community Transportation
via a DfT/SBRI Innovate UK Birmingham City University. Association of America (CTAA).
It is free to view and will be
research and development grant It is claimed that the new The UK designed and built ‘Bristol updated bi-weekly – www.apta.com
to Ultra Light Rail Partners. railcar could be produced for Biomethane’ railcar was demonstrated and www.ctaa.org.
It uses an adapted Parry People GBP2m (EUR2.2m) per vehicle. to the press and industry in July. P Abell
www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org september 2020 / 335
News
Details emerge of two
new Chinese tramways
On 22 July construction began
Siemens rebadges North
American low-floor cars
on a 27.3km (17-mile) tramway
in the Chinese city of Turpan
(population 700 000, Xinjiang
Uyghur autonomous region). The
CNY1.87bn (EUR230m) project
consists of two lines – a 23km Redesignation confirmed for all post-2014 S70 cars, now called the S700
(14.3-mile) city loop and a 4.3km
S
(2.7-mile) branch to connect to the
iemens Mobility USA
city’s high-speed railway station.
Completion is forecast for 2023. is currently the most
Meanwhile, construction is to successful of Siemens’
begin shortly on the Jinan – Jiyang divisions when it comes
tramway (Shandong province) to winning orders for trams
with the first 17km (11-mile) section and LRVs, offering both high-
expected to be completed within floor and low-floor vehicles to
18 months. Starting at Jinan East cities across North America.
Station in the south of the city,
Our analysis of the worldwide
the full 35.5km (22-mile) route
will serve the Yang, Pioneer and
tram and LRV market earlier in
Licheng Districts with 16 stations. the year (TAUT 988) showed the
Rolling stock will be provided Sacramento, CA, factories had
by 35m LRVs with a maximum orders for 239 cars (plus options
speed of 70km/h (44mph). for another 294).
The company is building
Edinburgh develops
high-floor cars for Calgary and
‘alertness’ wristband
Edinburgh Trams (UK) is leading San Francisco under the S200
development of a wristband to designation, while customers
monitor and analyse tram driver for its low-floor cars include
fatigue and well-being, with trials Houston, Orange County, The first Siemens S700 for Seattle (WA) was delivered in July 2019.
planned for later this year. Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento B. Englehardt / CC-BY-SA 4.0
Data would be analysed in real (20 since our April article was
time, triggering alerts at the published) and Seattle. in 2014 or later for Portland (18 to-back. None of the vehicles are
operational control centre if the
Since 2007 the low-floor car TriMet Type 5), Houston (37 plus 100% low-floor; there is a step up
biometrics indicate a risk such as
microsleep or a health condition.
for the North American market 14 on order), Minneapolis-St Paul to reach seating situated over the
The aim is to identify a future has been the S70, originally for (63), Charlotte (36), Seattle end bogies.
loss of consciousness, rather than Atlanta (4), Norfolk (9) and Salt (152, still being delivered) and With around 600 cars delivered
a reactive system which would Lake City (77), updated since 2018 San Diego (121), or on order for or on order, the S700 and its
intervene to stop the tram. to the S700, with a redesigned Phoenix (11), Orange County predecessors are a familiar sight
The technology is being central bogie adapted from the (8), Portland (26 TriMet Type 6) on North American systems.
developed in conjunction with Portland SD660 design of the and Sacramento (20) are now
UKTram and consultancy IHF Ltd. mid-1990s to permit longitudinal designated S700. Michael Peter has become
The first stage of development
seats in the centre section of the These vehicles range in length Siemens Mobility’s sole CEO
will be the creation of functionality
to identify if a user is exhibiting three-section vehicle. from 24.69 to 29.26m (81-96ft) from 10 July. Sabrina Soussan,
symptoms of COVID-19. It is Now Siemens has retroactively and most are double-ended, his former co-CEO, is to remain
expected that initial trials will applied the S700 designation though Portland has single- in an advisory capacity until
start in late summer. to all S70 cars built since 2014. ended cars with doors on both her contract ends at the end of
Consequently all S70 cars built sides that operate coupled back- the year.
in your next
PLUS...
+S ystems Factfile: Nottingham. Neil Pulling
reports from England’s East Midlands.
+M ike Russell begins a personal multi-part
triubute to the venerable Tatra T2
+ All the latest news, analysis, rolling stock
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOW TO MAXIMISE orders and system developments from
METRO! RAIL LIFE around the world
The Tyne and Wear Metro holds a In the third part of our urban
very special place in the hearts and rail masterclass, Daniel Pyke
minds of the millions of people it
serves. TAUT pays a special tribute
contrasts grooved rail maintenance
philosophies, examining some of
OCTOBER 2020 issue
on its 40th birthday – and looks
forward to an exciting future.
the solutions that could reduce the
need for costly renewals. On sale 18 September
336 / september 2020 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org
Vienna
A EURO A DAY KEEPs the
CLIMATE CRISIS AT BAY
Wiener Linien’s Karin Schwarz
describes how the Austrian
capital is bouncing back after
its pandemic lockdown.
V
ienna has been recently named
the “World’s Greenest City”.
In the latest index published by
Resonance Consultancy on
Earth Day 2020 (22 April), the
Austrian capital beat the German cities of
Munich (second) and Berlin (third).
The criteria defining this ranking included
analysis of the percentages of public
green space, total energy needs served by
renewable sources, population who use public
transportation to go to work, the level of air
pollution, per capita water consumption,
walkability, availability of city-wide recycling
and composting, as well as the number of
farmer’s markets providing sustainable produce.
With almost half of Vienna’s residents Wiener Linien CEO Günter Steinbauer (left) and CFO Alexandra Reinagl, seen in front of one of the city’s
holding an annual travel pass, paying a Euro a latest Flexity Wien low-floor trams (this image was taken before the national requirement for social distancing
day, the city is currently regarded by many as and face coverings was introduced). All images courtesy of Wiener Linien
‘the European benchmark for public transit’.
Prior to COVID-19, 2.6m journeys were Environmental benefits are a further at the U3 station in Ottakring. This is used
made on the capital’s extensive public key driver as each person using public to operate escalators, elevators and lighting;
transport network each day. Wiener Linien transportation helps to reduce the city’s CO2 in peak times, up to 50% of the energy
(WL) has followed a multi-modal approach emissions every year. Wiener Linien prides required to operate the station now comes
for residents and visitors alike, seeking itself on its reputation as ‘Greener Linien’, from solar energy.
pragmatic ways to cover the ‘first and last continually looking at initiatives to further In a more visible demonstration of the
mile’ issue within its WienMobil initiative. improve its environmental performance. city’s environmental credentials, green light
WienMobil stations connect public transport Several recent initiatives are noteworthy. rail tracks are installed on many parts of
hubs with environmentally-friendly onward One that has gathered a lot of interest is a the network to help redevelop biodiversity.
travel modes like citybikes, car-sharing, and programme to reduce urban heat build-up The RemiHub project also enables the
e-scooters. WienMobil is also the name of the through the implementation of ‘green-roofed’ delivering of packages by freight bicycles
mobility app which combines this portfolio tramstops. This is ongoing, with the next directly from WL depots in the inner city.
into a single app, offering a convenient way installation being setup in July in front of the By 2030 over two million people will live and
to plan and pay for journeys – no matter Austrian Houses of Parliament. work in Vienna. In order to keep pace with this
whether you want to buy a tram or metro At the Spittelau U-Bahn station (served by growth, services have to be further expanded
ticket, reserve a car, or order a taxi. lines U4 and U6, also offering interchange and modernised. As part of this programme,
Around 50% of residents have the annual with tramway, bus and regional rail services), U-Bahn line U2 will be extended from Rathaus
ticket that costs EUR365 and offers unlimited ‘green islands’ will be created as well as the by 6km (3.7 miles) to Wienerberg – with six new
travel. This initiative was introduced in 2012 covering of the walls of the station itself with stations, making it the longest line in the city.
and has further increased the use of public more than 4600 different plants. Elsewhere on The driverless U5 line, that incorporates part
transport; in 2019, 852 000 such tickets were the metro, photovoltaic films have been of the existing U2 alongside 3km (1.9 miles) of
sold (a record high), an increase of 30 000 installed recently to generate clean electricity new tracks, will also mark a first for the city.
over the previous year. More people in
Vienna therefore now have an annual public
transport ticket than own a car. ONE OF THE WORLD’S GREAT TRAMWAYS
The statistics are striking: 38% of all
journeys in Vienna are now made using The most easterly of Austria’s Electrified in 1897 (at 600V produced for decades. Three
public transport, corresponding to 29% by tramways, the capital’s network dc), the system’s longest line variants of the high-floor E class
covers 220km (137 miles), making is around 14.5km (nine miles), (motor and trailer units) trams
car, 26% on foot, with the rest (7%) by bicycle.
it one of the most comprehensive the shortest 3.4km (2.1 miles). were delivered in the three
It is hardly surprising then that the model in the world. It is joined by 83km Most routes run on surface decades to 1990, and low-floor
has drawn a great deal of attention from other (51.5 miles) of U-Bahn lines and alignments, although tunnels in variants from Siemens (the
cities keen on driving a similar modal shift. bus routes covering almost the south of the city are still used ULF, developed specifically
850km (530 miles). by city and interurban trams. for Vienna) and more recently
‘Greener Linien’ Represented across the 23 Viennese transport is covered Bombardier (Flexity Wien –
Alongside the obvious cost-effectiveness municipal districts, coverage is by the regional timetable 119 vehicles on order, with an
of public transport, another key reason less extensive in the east, but west and fare co-ordination body, option for a further 37) should
of the central area trams provide Verkehrsverbund Ost-Region. see the remaining high-floor
for its popularity is convenience – around
intricate street coverage of a Both tramway and metro cars withdrawn within the next
90% of the population have a tram, bus or type long-gone from most cities. rolling stock have been locally five years.
underground stop within walking distance.
www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org september 2020 / 337
Vienna
Recovering from COVID-19
With the nationally-imposed lockdown
measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19
and ‘flatten the curve’ starting in mid-March,
WL’s ridership decreased by as much as 80%.
Even with such a dramatic reduction in
patronage, the priority remained for
safe and efficient seamless journeys for
essential workers.
Vehicles are regularly and thoroughly
cleaned and disinfected, face masks are
compulsory for travel, rear door boarding
is required on buses and trams and doors
open automatically. For all employees, WL
has provided reusable fabric face masks and
3D-printed protective face shields (designed
and produced in-house) to make work on
construction sites and in workshops more
bearable under these challenging conditions.
Thousands of these protective items have
been produced.
As well as safeguarding employees,
operational and security staff across the
WL network inform passengers about the
ABOVE:
regulations to keep everyone safe.
Installation of the
This range of measures has proved very photovoltaic panels
effective in eliminating transmission of the at Ottakring U-Bahn
novel coronavirus. A study conducted by the station; the panels
Austrian Agency of Food Safety indicates that can provide up to
no registered infections can be traced back to 50% of the station’s
public transport. Passengers have adapted to energy needs.
the new measures well and the vast majority
of riders voluntarily comply. LEFT: The
‘green walls’ at the
“We managed to keep essential services
Spittelau U-Bahn
running, knowing that we had an obligation and multi-modal
to the community. We were extremely interchange.
quick to implement measures to keep both
our employees and passengers safe. Urban
mobility needs to be safeguarded and public
transport plays an essential role here,” said
WL CFO Alexandra Reinagl.
In an effort to reduce some of its revenue
losses and in a gesture of goodwill towards
customers, WL has extended the validity of
student passes for the spring-summer semester “Prior to the pandemic Although service frequencies cannot be
throughout the summer holiday period until increased further without a long procurement
30 September. public transport was more process for new vehicle orders, overcrowding
has so far not been an issue. “The pandemic
Restoring confidence and modal share popular than ever... has hit us all hard, but we should never forget
Austria was one of the first European
countries to relax confinement measures and
Now cars are getting more that we have an even bigger crisis that we
need to tackle: the climate catastrophe. Public
travel restrictions; since 18 May, operations popular again everything transport will play a key role in overcoming
have returned to pre-COVID service levels this challenge,“ says CEO Günter Steinbauer.
and passengers are gradually returning; more we have achieved to date Greenpeace Austria recently conducted a
than 70% of passengers have now returned to survey to gauge opinions surrounding
the network. is put at peril.” climate change: 90% stated that they felt
climate change already affected their daily
lives, while 84% believe that tax revenues
should be used to boost the economy
following the pandemic as well as to
mitigate climate change.
“Prior to the pandemic we had reached a
peak and public transport was more popular
than ever. Over 852 000 customers hold an
annual ticket, and modal share amounts to
38%. Now cars are getting more popular again
and everything we have achieved to date is
put at peril,” explains Ms Reinagl.
With this mind, the focus is now on getting
passengers back to using public transport.
“Every person in Vienna has a public
transport stop within roughly 300m of their
home. The main challenge now consists of
ABOVE: Reducing the need for delivery lorries in ABOVE: The interior of one of the new X-type restoring trust in public transport, as well as
the inner city, the RemiHub cargo bike scheme uses metro trains – produced by Siemens – for the future overcoming the challenge around the famous
bus and tram depots as transhipment points. driverless U5 U-bahn line, due to open in 2024. ‘last mile’”, concludes Mr Steinbauer.
338 / september 2020 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.orgAdvertorial
TDI: Leading the future
of Very Light Rail
T
ransport Design International Ltd. (TDI), founded in
1987, is a world-leading, innovative transport systems
provider based in Stratford-upon-Avon (UK). The company
specialises in the design, engineering and supply of
low-cost, sustainable solutions for both road and rail.
Working with strategic partners, TDI is developing a number of
Very Light Rail (VLR) vehicles, leading the field in the design with
composite bodyshells using recycled materials.
As part of a consortium that includes WMG, Eversholt Rail,
RDM, Cummins and Transcal – TDI has developed the 18m diesel-
electric hybrid Revolution, designed for use on branch lines and other
segregated railways. The company has also fully designed the more
urban-orientated ‘shuttle’ for the Coventry VLR scheme (see page 340
more detail on this project). This vehicle, due for delivery in 2021, is
A computer-generated image of the award-winning Revolution VLR concept. TDI
100% battery-powered and will be capable of 70 passengers, 20 seated.
Alongside its VLR commitments, TDI is also commissioned to In 2016, TDI won the Global Light Rail Award for ‘Outstanding
undertake feasibility studies, concept styling and interior design Engineering Achievement’ for its own ULR Express diesel-electric
projects, and production engineering assignments, for high-speed, railcar, enjoying further success at last year’s ceremony winning
metro and light rail vehicles, monorails, automated peoplemovers, the ‘Technical Innovation of the Year for Rolling Stock’ category in
buses and commercial vehicles. collaboration with partners FAR Composites, Composite Braiding
The company is able to visualise potential solutions via a multitude Limited (CBL) and WMG.
of different and platforms: this expertise includes all aspects of
development, starting with the definition of vehicle performance,
styling and ergonomics, right through to detailed body structures, FIND OUT MORE
driver’s cabs, saloon interiors and powertrain development. Its design
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services include 3D modelling, human factors, interior design, liveries
and branding, mock-ups and prototypes and vehicle styling. Director – james.t@tdi.uk.com
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www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org SEPTEMBER 2020 / 339A virtual representation of
the future Coventry railway
station, complete with VLR
connection. Coventry CC
VLR:
coventry’s vision
for Future mobility
Nicola Small of Coventry City Council and Dr Nick Mallinson of WMG update TAUT on the latest
progress with the UK city’s radical new lightweight urban rail concept.
I
magine a city where residents, was named as the UK’s first ‘Future Transport The importance of collaboration
workers and tourists alike have a Zone’ in October 2018. This title came with Analysis of existing policy, plans, and
number of attractive, emissions-free GBP20m (EUR22m) in funding for the West strategies has demonstrated that the
and sustainable transport options, Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and introduction of VLR in Coventry
all connected within a network its transport arm Transport for West Midlands (population 365 000) will help to deliver
that allows for seamless door-to-door (TfWM) to develop innovative new solutions several critical policy objectives.
journeys. E-bikes and scooters, electric taxis, to make journeys quicker, cheaper and more A number of challenges have been
autonomous pods and urban rail solutions environmentally-friendly. identified that are holding back the city’s
all offer improved alternatives to private car The VLR R&D programme is being funded potential. Like most cities in the UK, we have
usage, encouraging modal shift and new jointly by the WMCA and the Coventry and a heavy reliance on the private car; prior
travel behaviours. Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership to this year’s COVID-19 pandemic, around
This vision is being embraced by the 2021 (CWLEP) with GBP14.6m (EUR16.2m) two-thirds of work-related journeys in the
UK City of Culture, Coventry, seeking to city were by car, leading to high levels of
build upon its proud heritage of innovative both road congestion and tailpipe emissions.
transport solutions by creating a new model “The initial proposed These problems have contributed to poor air
of mobility. At its heart, Coventry City quality in the city and restricted economic
Council (CCC) is developing a new, affordable, route serves a key development and growth.
environmentally-friendly concept in urban Ambitious targets in terms of housing
mass transit – Very Light Rail (VLR). Using
corridor, making VLR and employment growth are already in
proven concepts derived from world-beating
local automotive expertise, allied to
an attractive, affordable place to help the city grow, but without
co-development within an integrated
cutting-edge materials and construction
methodologies, the city’s VLR pilot seeks to
and accessible option.” transport framework these would add further
pressure onto the already congested road
establish the wider West Midlands within network if they were developed in isolation.
which it sits as a centre of excellence for Very derived from Growth Deal and Devolution Establishing a working partnership with the
Light Rail design and manufacture. Deal sources. On 4 August a further GBP1.8m neighbouring Dudley Metropolitan Borough
It is envisaged that this ‘new industry’ will (EUR2m) in grant funding was confirmed Council (DMBC), CCC is collaborating with
utilise a regional supply chain to create jobs from the UK Government’s Get Building WMG (based at the University of Warwick)
and prosperity, while at the same time having Fund. This is part of a wider GBP66m and TfWM to establish the West Midlands as a
the potential to revolutionise urban mass (EUR73.2m) package that is to be shared world-class investment location. To fulfil their
transit for smaller cities and towns who may amongst projects across the West Midlands. ambitions, the region requires world-class
currently struggle to make the business case As well as new modal concepts such as VLR, transportation to maximise its potential, and
stack up for a traditional LRT system with TfWM is working closely with technology this is a key driver behind the establishment
its average costs of upwards of GBP25m/km providers to trial new ideas such as Mobility of a VLR ‘backbone’ that will dramatically
(EUR27.5m/km). as a Service, car sharing programmes, e-bike improve urban connectivity, and drive up skill
Although the genesis of VLR dates back and scooter initiatives, as well as using levels through a focus on the development
to early 2000, it now sits within a wider advanced data analytics to reduce congestion of the associated technologies for future
regional framework as the West Midlands on the region’s roads. commercialisation.
340 / SEPTEMBER 2020 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.orgCoventry VLR
Some of the city’s challenges – and how Zero-emission battery High-power charging at the
Urban VLR will help – include: electric vehicle with end of the line, no overhead
20km range equipment
Challenge 1: Constraining infrastructure in Capacity for
the city centre, leading to congestion and 56 people, 20
seated
under-capacity on the road network.
Urban VLR solution: Frequent headways,
especially during peak times when commuter
demand is greatest, and a high quality and Lightweight
highly reliable service, will lead to high construction
passenger confidence and remove the need –
and desire – for independent journeys.
All axles driven for
Challenge 2: Above average unemployment maximum traction
and areas of high deprivation and inequality
(Coventry’s unemployment rate was 4.7% in Low-floor for easy entry
2019, compared to a UK average of 3.8%).
Urban VLR solution: New development Regenerative braking
projects and employment sites will emerge
Low lifetime-cost track
along the rapid transit corridor – the designed for easy
Designed for tight
‘regeneration effect’ – due to the improved construction and long life
(15m) curves
connectivity. This is reflected in the Coventry
City Council Local Plan (2017) which
ABOVE and LEFT:
makes provisions for a minimum of 24 600
The future VLR Shuttle vehicle
additional dwellings between 2011 and 2031. is being designed, engineered
Such developments will help to make and manufactured within
Coventry a more attractive place to live and do the UK’s West Midlands.
business. Proposed growth and employment Courtesy of TDI
sites expected to be established by 2031 will
benefit directly from VLR connectivity.
Challenge 3: Poor connectivity between key
locations and varying levels of access to a car.
Urban VLR solution: The initial proposed
route serves a key city corridor, making VLR
an attractive, affordable and fully-accessible
option for those with no private means of Urban VLR has been identified as a and towns will have a new, attractive and
travel around the city. significant intervention to combat these affordable option for rail-based transit as part
Secondly, for those who currently use the issues, at the same time helping to of their integrated public transport offer.
highway network to travel within the city, ‘future-proof’ the city’s mobility network.
VLR will be an option as part of a full or Environmentally, VLR will improve air R&D already well underway…
multi-modal journey. It is also likely that quality within the Coventry Air Quality Thanks to the GBP14.6m from CWLEP and
commuters into Coventry by car (31 483) 1 Management Area and assist CCC in WMCA, the R&D phase is well underway.
who are also able to use the national rail achieving its challenging Climate Change and Engineers from WMG have worked with
network will choose to travel to the city by rail Air Quality targets, due to the expected modal their subcontractor, Transport Design
and finish their journey via VLR due to its fast shift from cars which will reduce carbon and International, on the design of a battery-
and frequent service. other damaging emissions. powered VLR vehicle, with the first prototype
Due to its state-of-the-art vehicle due to be delivered in late 2020 ahead of
Challenge 4: Poor air quality – and one technologies and innovative track system, initial performance trials starting in February
that is only getting worse. VLR offers a lightweight, rail-based mass 2021. To avoid any confusion with traditional
Urban VLR solution: As we enter a transit solution that is relatively simple, trams, we refer to this as a shuttle.
post-COVID world, the need to offer quick and cost-effective to construct. The longer-term objective is that the shuttle
attractive, safe public transport that meets The target cost is GBP10m/km (EUR11m/km). will be autonomous – removing the operational
the needs of the ‘new normal’ whilst Once proof of concept is achieved, cost of drivers – with the capacity to carry over
addressing the ever-present challenge of a first route is planned to be built in Coventry. 50 passengers on a high-quality ‘turn up and
climate change will be essential. Once proven in service, smaller cities go’ service much like a modern metro, and
with reliable journey times competitive to
Surface course the private car. The vehicle has been designed
Binder course
Novel trackform system to be very lightweight using a multi-material
structure approach to achieve a stiff structure at an
economic cost. Using a steel chassis, there is
Base course widespread use of aluminium components and
glass fibre composite panels. The body design is
Total target modular to minimise the number of panel types
Sub-base system height and maximise any economies of scale that can
300mm
be achieved in manufacture. Onboard battery
power coupled with rapid charging removes
Buried utilities
the need for overhead catenary, which is both
Sub-grade
costly and unsightly, especially in the historic
street environments that remain in Coventry.
In parallel, a R&D programme is underway
to deliver a shallow low-cost trackform which
can be easily installed into the city’s roads.
WMG is working with CCC and French civil
engineering company Ingerop Conseil et
ABOVE: A simplified side profile of the novel trackform, currently under development. Ingénierie to deliver this novel track solution;
www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org SEPTEMBER 2020 / 341You can also read
