Köln (Cologne) orders 132 Stadtbahn cars from Stadler

Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB), the tramway and light rail operator in the German city of Köln (Cologne) has placed an EUR 700M contract with the Swiss Stadler Group for the delivery of 132 double-ended high-floor LRVs plus 34 additional centre sections. Commissiong will take place from 2029 to form 70m 470-passenger trains, connected via quick-release coupling to give train length flexibility. 

 

Stefanie Haaks, CEO of KVB, said, 'The city council's approval of this important project gives us planning security. In view of a challenging budget situation, we are very grateful for the financial support, which sends a positive signal for the implementation of the mobility transition and strong public transport. Both our passengers and drivers can look forward to modern trams and a high level of comfort. The vehicles will be state-of-the-art in terms of technology. The driver's cab offers excellent all-round visibility, an assistance system warns of collisions and a rear-view mirror video system eliminates blind spots. The displays in the cockpit automatically adjust to the ambient brightness and the monitor for video surveillance can be integrated directly into the display. An integrated passenger counting system with evaluation software supports operational planning. Hybrid wheels with aluminium rim rings reduce both weight and driving noise. The new light rail vehicles also set new standards in the interior. Energy-saving air conditioning ensures a pleasant interior climate with high energy efficiency. Large 29-inch monitors provide up-to-date passenger information, while LED lighting ensures uniform and energy-efficient illumination. Wider aisles and a continuous passenger compartment create a spacious feel and allow for a more even distribution of passengers, which facilitates faster boarding and alighting and reduces waiting times at stops. In their design, both companies consistently focus on state-of-the-art accessibility – from the choice of materials to the colour scheme – to ensure inclusive use for our passengers. 

 

Jure Mikolcic, CEO of Stadler Division Germany, said, 'With the new high-floor light rail vehicles, we are joining forces with KVB to send a strong signal for the mobility of the future – comfortable, energy-efficient and ready for the challenges of tomorrow. The vehicles are tailor-made for Cologne and combine state-of-the-art technology with a flexible, modular design. KVB also relies on Stadler for sustainability and long-term operational reliability. The new light rail vehicles are not only comfortable and energy-efficient, but also designed for a service life of over 30 years. As part of a long-term partnership, Stadler will ensure the supply of spare parts and provide service and support, from preventive maintenance to technical advice. This will ensure that the vehicles remain reliable, safe and efficient in operation over the long term. The first 10 trains and five connecting modules are scheduled for delivery in 2029 for pre-series operation. Series delivery is scheduled from mid-2030 to the end of 2032. The new vehicles will gradually replace the existing 2200/2300 and 5100 series trains and will be used on lines 4, 13 and 18 from 2029 onwards. 

 

KVB operates a mixed high-floor (LRV) and low-floor (tram) network with 12 lines covering 198.5km. The high-floor Stadtbahn concept dates from 1968 since when 172 Stadtbahn-B have been operated alongside 124 low-floor trams.