Local traffic - BVG presents first 50 meter long streetcar
50 meters long, 2.40 meters wide: The Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) have taken a new tram with an extralarge size into test operation. The new vehicle, which was presented at the BVG depot in Lichtenberg, has space for 312 passengers (92 seating places). The so-called Urbanliner is expected to be used for the first time in passenger service in the first quarter of 2025 on Line M4. Until then, numerous tests are planned according to the BVG.
The new trams are being built by Alstom, with most of the assembly taking place in a works in the Saxon Bautzen. The framework agreement between the BVG and Alstom states that the transport authority can order a maximum of 117 trams, according to the BVG. In the first order, the BVG has ordered 20 "Urbanliners," which are scheduled to be delivered by 2026.
Muhammad Yakisan, President of Alstom for the region Germany, Austria, Switzerland, said that the "Urbanliner" model is one of the longest trams in the world. He also promised that the new tram would be quieter on the road and would put less strain on the tracks than previous models.
- During the test operation of the new tram, local traffic in certain areas of Berlin might be affected due to Drilling and other necessary adjustments.
- Despite the size of the 50-meter-long streetcar, it was designed to navigate through the city's complex street layout, ensuring minimal disruption to local traffic.
- The SNB (S-Bahn Berlin) has outlined measures to manage traffic around the tram lines during the tests, collaborating closely with the BVG.
- Alstom has been working closely with the BVG and railroad engineers to ensure the safety and efficiency of the Urbanliner in Berlin's Lichtenberg district traffic.
- The German, Austrian, and Swiss divisions of Alstom, led by Muhammad Yakisan, will continue their close partnership with the BVG, ensuring the successful implementation of the Urbanliner in Berlin's public traffic.
