First Saarbahn Stadler tram-train unveiled

 

 

On 9 June Saarbrücken light rail operator Saarbahn unveiled the first of its Stadler tram-train LRVs; after tests and training it should be carrying passengers by the end of the year. Saarbahn is one of six operators that have ordered up to 504 of these VöV-designed cars from Stadler. Saarbahn will take 28, with an option for 21 more. The contract includes 32 years of maintenance. The dual-system LRVs can run on 750V dc on tram lines and 15 000V ac on railway lines. Each 37.2m double-ended low-floor car has three body sections and four bogies, with four double doors each side. Inside are 100 seats and space for up to 133 to stand. Car width is 2.65m. There are two multi-purpose areas with space for bicycles and strollers as well as reserved areas for wheelchair users. Power comes from 6 x 125kW motors and maximum speed is 100km/h. 

 

Saarbahn has been operating since 1997 and now covers 44km including street running in the centre of Saarbrücken and operation over local rail lines, including the cross-border line to Sarreguemines in France. There are 28 Bombardier Flexity-Link LRVs that will be replaced by the end of the decade.