CZECH REPUBLIC: Ostrava transport operator DPO has awarded Bosch Engineering a KC37m contract to fit an anti-collision system to 38 Škoda 39T ForCity Smart trams.
An initial two vehicles will be equipped this year for testing, with the remaining 36 to follow by September 2027.
DPO said the anti-collision system used on its Stadler Tango NF2 trams has proven itself in practice, and it now wants to deploy a next-generation system for wider use across its fleet. This will use cameras and lidar for accurate obstacle detection, with the ability to identify an obstacle in front of the tram at a distance of up to 80 m and up to a maximum tram speed of 80 km/h.
The system works in three steps: first, the driver is alerted to the danger by a warning icon on the onboard cab interface, then there is an audible warning signal, and if the driver does not react in time, the control system initiates braking.
DPO said the technology would not take over full responsibility from the driver, but is expected to contribute to increased passenger safety.
