GERMANY: Köln transport operator Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe has awarded Stadler a €696m contract to supply 132 high-floor light rail vehicles customised for the city’s network.
‘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’, Stadler Germany CEO Jure Mikolčić said when the order was announced on July 28. ‘The vehicles are tailor-made for Köln and combine state-of-the-art technology with a flexible, modular design.’
Modern trams with a high level of comfort
‘Our passengers and drivers can look forward to modern trams and a high level of comfort’, said KVB CEO Stefanie Haaks.
The order includes 132 LRVs 30 m long, designed as half-sets which must always operate in pairs, plus 34 intermediate modules 10 m long to enable the creation of 70 m long sets. The new LRVs will offer a higher capacity than existing ones to make more efficient use of the infrastructure.
Stadler said the cabs would offer good all-round visibility, with a driver assistance system to warn of collisions and a rear-view CCTV system to eliminate blind spots. The cab displays will automatically adjust to the ambient light levels, with the CCTV integrated directly into the display. An integrated passenger counting system will support operational planning.
Hybrid wheels with aluminium rim rings will reduce weight and noise.
The ‘light-flooded’ and ‘spacious’ interiors will feature energy-saving air-conditioning with natural refrigerant, 29 inch passenger information screens and LED lighting for uniform and energy-efficient illumination. Stader and KVB are focusing on ‘state-of-the-art accessibility’ including the choice of materials to the colour scheme.
The LRVs are being designed for a service life of over 30 years, with Stadler to ensure the supply of spare parts and provide service and support including preventive maintenance and technical advice.
Delivery schedule
The first 10 LRVs and five intermediate 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 Series 2200/2300 and 5100 LRVs on Routes 4, 13 and 18 from 2029 onwards.
