Göteborg trams modernised
Posted on 15th June 2024 at 12:10
The tramway fleet in the Swedish city of Göteborg (Gothenburg) includes 79 M31 trams built by ASEA in 1984-1986 and rebuilt with a low-floor centre section in 1998-2002.
Now these three-section 30.9m trams will be sent in turn to Ostrava in the Czech Republic for modernisation to the latest standard by Skoda Ekova, a process that will last until 2028 and cost EUR 80M. The trams will undergo a comprehensive modernisation including new door systems (electric replacing air), a modern electro-hydraulic braking system, improved heating for passengers and air conditioning for drivers to cope with the city’s tough climate. The driver’s cab will be refurbished with LED controls.
In the passenger area there will be new seats covers and LED lighting. All trams will be repainted in traditional Göteborg blu and white. The first four trams are already being worked on and the prototype should return to Göteborg later this summer. The work should make the M31 fleet fit for another 15 years in service.
Miroslav Mareš, Škoda Group Chairman of the Board and CEO said, “The success in Sweden confirms our ability to succeed even in the most demanding markets, of which Scandinavia is certainly one. I believe that the renewed trams we will deliver to Gothenburg will serve to the satisfaction of both passengers and operators. As a traditional repair and modernisation company for transport companies, we are able to offer our customers a high standard of quality. In recent years, we have also been expanding our competencies and producing new trams and other products for the Group's current and future customers.”
This is how the modernised Gothenburg trams will look. (Skoda)
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