THE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

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JULY 2015 No. 931 ’S 21st CENTURY URBAN RAIL REVOLUTION

Examining the tramway wheel/rail interface China’s fund-raising drive Houston opens two new LRT lines Vienna reveals driverless U5 plan ISSN 1460-8324 £4.25 Rolling stock Orléans 07 Global mergers and LRT’s vital role in a acquisitions analysis historic French city 9 771460 832043 London, 7 October 2015

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HEADLINE SUPPORTER 260 CONTENTS The official journal of the Light Rail Transit Association JULY 2015 Vol. 78 No. 931 www.tramnews.net EDITORIAL EDITOR Simon Johnston Tel: +44 (0)1733 367601 E-mail: [email protected] 13 Orton Enterprise Centre, Bakewell Road, Peterborough PE2 6XU, UK ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tony Streeter E-mail: [email protected] WORLDWIDE EDITOR Michael Taplin Flat 1, 10 Hope Road, Shanklin, Isle of Wight PO37 6EA, UK. E-mail: [email protected] 279 NEWS EDITOR John Symons 17 Whitmore Avenue, Werrington, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs ST9 0LW, UK. E-mail: [email protected] SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR Neil Pulling WORLDWIDE CONTRIBUTORS Tony Bailey, James Chuang, Paul Nicholson, Richard Felski, Ed Havens, Bill Vigrass, Andrew Moglestue, Mike Russell, Nikolai Semyonov, Vic Simons, Alain Senut, Thomas Wagner. 266 PRODUCTION Lanna Blyth Martyn Janduła Martyn Tel: +44 (0)1733 367604 E-mail: [email protected] NEWS 260 SYSTEMS FACTFILE: ORLÉANS 279 DESIGN China launches PPP metro fund; ‘Railfest’ Since 2012 two tramlines have provided the Debbie Nolan and free rides mark Houston openings; main transport structure in this historic ADVERTISING Budapest boosts plans; Vienna plans French city. Neil Pulling explores. COMMERCIAL MANAGER Geoff Butler automatic operation for line U5. Tel: +44 (0)1733 367610 E-mail: [email protected] WORLDWIDE REVIEW 285 PUBLISHER TRANSFORMING WARSAW 266 Tranvia de Ayacucho opening announced; Howard Johnston ’s capital has undergone a metro Marseille opens tramline 3 extension; Tramways & Urban Transit is jointly published by the and tramway transformation, as Witold Tel Aviv signs Red line subway contract; LRTA and LRTA Publishing on the third Friday of each Urbanowicz explains. tunnelling begins. month preceding the cover date. LRTA WEBSITE AND DIARY ROLLING STOCK MARKET ANALYSIS 272 MAILBOX 290 Brian Lomas Recent mergers and acquisitions are Tramway engineering in the UK’s E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] changing the face of the light rail market – ‘wilderness years’; and welcoming a report LRTA MEMBERSHIP (with TAUT subscription) Tramways & Urban Transit is sent free to all paid-up with more to come. Michael Taplin reports. into the potential for light rail in Oxford. members of the Light Rail Transit Association. SUBSCRIPTIONS AND MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES UNDERSTANDING WHEEL ON RAIL 275 CLASSIC : B&ALR CAR 14 292 LRTA Membership Secretary (Dept T06), Bob Hall looks at the complex interaction The successful project to save and repatriate 38 Wolseley Road, Sale M33 7AU, UK. between steel wheel and steel rail. Part one. a classic British tramcar. Tel: +44 (0)117 9517785 BACK ISSUES Tel: +44 (0)1406 373070 PRINT AND DISTRIBUTION Small trains in the streets or big buses on rails? Warners (Midlands) plc, The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincs PE10 9PH, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1778 391000. This month Mike Taplin offers a few thoughts on the recent round of LRTA REGISTERED OFFICE significant mergers and acquisitions that will reshape the rolling stock c/o 138 Radnor Avenue, Welling, Kent DA16 2BY, UK. landscape in years to come – 2014-15 marks something of a watershed for Private company limited by guarantee, No. 5072319 the market, and there may well be more to come. in England and . We also continue our focus on technical matters with the first in Bob LRTA CHAIRMAN Hall’s analyses of the issues between steel wheel and steel rail; he argues Andrew Braddock E-mail: [email protected] that too much heavy rail expertise is being applied to the construction of modern LRTA DEPUTY CHAIRMAN tramway and light rail systems. Reading it raises an interesting point that crops up Paul Rowen in conversation time and time again: why do we seem fixated with ever more heavy LRTA PUBLISHING REGISTERED OFFICE: infrastructure and rolling stock, with the regulations to match, when it comes to trams c/o 8 Berwick Place, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 4TU, and LRVs that rarely exceed 40km/h (25mph) on busy urban streets? UK. Private Limited Company, No. 06169422 Taking to this to an extreme, it could be argued the whole premise of modern light in England and Wales. rail construction is based upon the wrong principles altogether. Rather than creating © LRTA Publishing 2015. scaled-down rail infrastructure for the street, what we should be thinking of is a more Articles are submitted on the understanding they may also later be used on our websites or other media. A contribution efficient and more capacious bus that runs on rails. This is where the crossover begins. is accepted on the basis that its author is responsible for the The boundaries are blurring between modes and, applied logically, opinions expressed in it, and such opinions are not those of this is something to be embraced rather than feared. LRTA Publishing or the LRTA. All rights reserved. Modern towns and cities are fantastically individual creations and there is no ‘one No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including size fits all’ solution in terms of transport. Of course, bespoke solutions increase the photocopying, recording or by any information storage and cost of implementation so some compromise has to be made. But one thing we seek retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from to explore at this year’s UITP Congress in Milan and the UK Light Rail Conference in the copyright owner. Multiple copying of the contents of the Nottingham, is that whether we are talking traditional bus, guided bus, tram, light rail, magazine without prior written approval is not permitted. metro (light or heavy), tram-train, or monorail – all modes have their place in integrated networks. We just need a little more imagination. Simon Johnston, Editor COVER: Warsaw M2 Nowy Swiat-Uniwersytet station on 8 March. Witold Urbanowicz

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 259 News China launches PPP metro fund New public-private initiative aims to raise CNY300bn for infrastructure construction

n 26 May Chinese bridge the shortfall in delivering In a statement to the Shanghai for 30% of the investment state-owned real vitally needed infrastructure stock exchange, Shanghai capital to construct line 4, estate giant Greenland to drive economic growth. This Construction Group announced while the Beijing Municipal Group announced scheme will also go some way it would contribute CNY2bn Government provided the Othat, together with China to supporting the government’s (EUR290m) remaining 70% – mainly Construction Bank and a number aim of providing urban rail Beijing was the first Chinese covering civil engineering, of partners, it is to set up a infrastructure to 50 cities by city to launch a PPP for line 4 station construction and CNY100bn (approx. EUR14.3bn) 2020, with a total length of of its subway network, which installation. A similar 30-year PPP metro construction fund. 6000km (over 3700 miles). opened in 2009. Unlike the operation and maintenance The fund plans to invest It is hoped the new fund will system’s other lines – which are contract was signed in 2012 for in supporting design, build, spur public-private investment of completely state-owned and line 14, and another for line 16 finance and management PPP up to CNR300bn (EUR42.9bn), operated – line 4 was built and on 8 February 2015. concessions, which include said Greenland Chairman Zhang is operated by the Beijing MTR MTR also has a 49% stake in a the rights to develop property Yuliang, based in Shanghai; Corp, a joint-venture between ten-year operate and maintain around the new lines. speaking to local media, Yuliang Hong Kong’s MTR Corporation concession for Beijing’s Daxing The Chinese Government is added that the Greenland Group (49%), Beijing Capital Group line, which opened in December seeking partners for the greater will oversee the fund, with (49%), and Beijing Infrastructure 2010, and is sole concessionaire deployment of the PPP model to responsibility for recommending Investment Co. (2%). The in a 30-year agreement for the reduce centralised debt and help suitable projects for investment. joint venture is responsible Longhua line in Shenzen.

Bombardier Aarhus unveils LRV designs expected to launch rail IPO

Canadian-based multinational Bombardier is expected to hold an Initial Public Offering for a minority stake in its transportation business during the last quarter of this year. The move, confirmed on 7 May, would potentially create a separate publicly traded How the two types of Stadler LRV for company. Suggestions have been Aarhus will look. Aarhus Letbane made that the soon to be created Chinese Railway Rolling Stock Aarhus LRT promoter Aarhus Lisbjerg-Lystrup via the main A fleet of 26 Stadler vehicles Corporation may be interested in Letbane revealed the final university campus at Skejby. of two types (tram and tram- taking a stake. designs of the Stadler LRVs that The line would connect at train) was ordered in 2014 Bombardier recorded a loss will be running on its first line, both ends to the Banedanmark in a contract worth for the first time in nine years in due to open in 2017, on 1 June. national rail network, allowing EUR292m that partners the 2014 and saw its share price fall The scheme’s first phase LRVs trams to run south from rolling stock manufacturer by 34%. The company, which has involves the construction of Nørreport through Aarhus H to with Ansaldo STS in delivering large aerospace interests, has had 12km (7.5 miles) of double- Odder (26.5km/16.5 miles) and the infrastructure elements of problems financing itsC Series track loop alignment, with north to Hornslet and Grenaa the scheme. Urban services jet airliner due to cost and time 18 stops, through the city (69km/43 miles) over newly- will be worked by a fleet of 13 overruns. centre from Nørreport to electrified heavy rail lines. 32.4m Variobahn low-floor Bombardier acquired its first trams, while longer distance rail interests in 1975; it became tram-train services will be the western world’s biggest operated using 13 39.2m manufacturer in the sector when Tango partial low-floor cars The design of the it took over ADTranz in 2001. similar to those operating in interior of a new Aarhus Variobahn. Lyon and Stuttgart, with a See also pages 272-274 and Aarhus Letbane maximum speed capability of TAUT 930. 100km/h (62mph) and a toilet. The design brief required the Comsa Emte assets sold creation of a design that upheld Interests in concession assets the ‘Scandinavian tradition in two Spanish commuter lines of stylish minimalism and have been acquired by Allianz high functionality,’ focusing Capital Partners and Bastion on ‘two words… simplicity Infrastructure Group from Comsa Emte Concesiones. The acquisition and quality.’ As such, the two covers 100% of Comta Ense’s vehicles will have a common interests in ’s Metro line family resemblance, with both 9 (two concessions) and Madrid’s featuring a grey livery with ‘a Metro Ligero Oeste. twist of blue’ that is inspired by the city’s proximity to the sea.

260 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Ibadan to get ‘Railfest’ and free rides Chinese LRT Ibadan, in Oyo State in south- mark Houston opening west Nigeria, the country’s third- largest metropolitan area with a population of 3.2m, signed a Delayed Green and Purple light rail routes join existing Red line Memorandum of Understanding with a Chinese consortium led aturday 23 May, during by CCECC on 23 May for the the Memorial Day A new Houston construction of a 24km CAF-built LRV weekend, saw the launch (15-mile) light rail line linking during test running of two new light rail lines at Scott on the Ojoo and Mokala. The line costingS USD823m in the Texan should be complete before the Purple Line. C. Duty city of Houston, with a Railfest end of Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s from 15.00 and free rides all day. second term, which started on 11 The project adds 13.4 route km April and is due to last four years. (8.3 miles) to the network. Planning for the system began The Green line (5.3km/3.3 in 2013 when a project for a new miles) travels along Harrisburg expressway from Lagos through the historic East End to was amended to include light reach Altio/Howard Hughes (a rail in the Ibadan corridor, later extension will take the line rather than bus on to Magnolia Park Transit Center). expressway lanes. Meanwhile the Purple line (10.6km/6.6 miles) shares tracks with the Green line in the city record centre before travelling south- There was live entertainment Metro getting federal funding Passenger numbers on the east through one of Houston’s and a free concert, with Houston to build light rail on Richmond Glasgow Subway (UK) hit record oldest African-American Grand Opera staff and artists Ave, has agreed this can go ahead levels last year, but still remain neighbourhoods to Palm Center appearing in full make-up and contingent on voter approval. He 500 000 behind targets set Transit Center. costumes from Die Walküre and will also help obtain funds for a by Strathclyde Partnership During Railfest Metro Die Zauberflöte. commuter rail line. for Transport. The circular underground carried 12.95m Chairman Gilbert Garcia There was more good news Houston’s first light rail line, passengers during 2014 with and Mayor Annise D. Parker for Houston as the MTA and the 12.1km (7.5-mile) Red line, traffic peaking at 1.2m during the held rallies with community Republican Senator John opened in 2004 only after period when the city hosted the stakeholders, and took part Culberson announced a Republican Tom DeLay stood Commonwealth Games. in formal ribbon-cutting new agreement to help the down after blocking federal SPT’s target figure is 13.5m and ceremonies at three stops, agency move forward with funding for several years. The if the boost of the Games traffic is including the joint city centre transit projects. Culbertson, Red Line was later extended to removed, traffic actually fell by 1.1%. terminus Theatre District. instrumental in preventing 20.6km (12.8-mile).

Casablanca confirms NEWS IN PICTURES tram expansion plans Less than three years after and construction of T2 are inaugurating its first tramline estimated to cost MAD3.3bn in Casablanca, Morocco, plans (approx. EUR300m), with for a 2km (1.2-mile) extension funding coming from the and a second line were city authorities, the Grand- unveiled in May. Casablanca region and The existing links Sidi French bonds. Moumen in the east with Ain Following the cancellation Diab and the Facultés district of plans for a 15km elevated By late April regular daylight test running was underway on the NET Chilwell in the west with a 31km metro in July 2014, deemed route as far as University Boulevard. Car 223 is seen entering Meadows Way (19-mile) double-track route too expensive compared as it crosses Queens Drive from Enterprise Way on 22 April. Mike Haddon that opened on 12 December to the light rail option, the 2012. There are also a further city is now continuing with Nottingham implement driver training system 6.5km (4.1 miles) of track at the planning a four-line tramway, Nottingham Trams is the latest operator to utilise state-of-the-art simulators depot. Initial works are now increasing the overall length of to train drivers ahead of the launch of passenger service on the Phase 2 lines. underway on the T1 extension the network to approximately Nottingham’s tramway is undertaking a major expansion that will see the to the Lissasfa district. 80km (50 miles) by 2020 system more than double its current size, with 18km of new track and 28 new The planned 15km (9.3-mile) with an estimated total stops, including two new park-and-ride sites catering for 2500 parking spaces. second line (T2) will run from cost of MAD16bn (approx. The operator is working with Tram-Pro’s new driver simulator, which will Ain Diab to Ain Sebaa railway EUR1.47bn). cover both the new lines as well as the existing Line One, allowing multiple station, via the El Fida and Derb Casa Transports launched drivers to be trained simultaneously and reducing training time by 50%. The modular system will be delivered in sections, the first of which Sultan districts. Construction tenders for project was delivered in May. Each section of the network will benefit from a fully will include diversion of management and detailed rendered 3D virtual environment, created from Ordnance Survey, CAD and utilities, telecommunications planning for both the GPS data, blended with still photography and imaging to create a life-like as well as transplanting extension of T1 and works on training environment. trees. The extension of T1 T2 in late May.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 261 News Budapest boosts trams as it bids for Olympics Tramway favoured over ‘expensive’ metro growth

lans to extend line M4 The new line is proposed to of the , begin at Baross tér, heading opened in June 2014, east north-east to Újpalota along from its current terminus Rákóczi út and Thököly út, ABOVE: Budapest already has one of the biggest tramways in Europe, at over Pat Keleti have effectively been bringing trams back to the latter 157km (98 miles), that links many of the city’s key passenger generators. Neil Pulling abandoned after the municipal after an absence of more than government voted in May to 20 years following the closure of BELOW: Plans to extend M4 from its current terminus at Keleti seem to be on expand the city’s tramway. The line 67. The city’s rack railway, indefinite hold in favour of tramway expansion. Neil Pulling plans come in the same month line 60, will also be extended at as the capital’s mayor publicly both ends. placed his support behind a bid The city authorities have to host the 2024 Olympic Games. recently approved the city’s István Tarlós has long argued financing programme to 2019, that extending the controversial Tarlós said, with public transport M4 line is not a cost-effective improvements dominating the use of public funds, and budget. These include a revamp told television news that the of metro line M3, with Tarlós extension of tramline 1 north adding that Budapest has only to Aranyvölgy and construction to gain from hosting the 2024 of a new line – supported by Olympics, and that the city could substantial EU contributions – see the outlined infrastructure will better address the city’s developments necessary for transportation needs. hosting the games by 2020.

Jaipur metro opens The first 9.6km (six miles) of De Lijn takes up Flexity 2 option Jaipur’s metro opened on 3 June. Phase 1A of the system On 2 June Bombardier of 378. Antwerp will receive 24 in the Indian city, population announced that Flemish single-ended trams: 14 will be 3.3m, serves nine stations operator De Lijn has exercised an 43m seven-section and ten will (one underground, eight option for a further 40 Flexity 2 be 31m five-section vehicles elevated) and was inaugurated by Rajasthan’s Chief Minister low-floor trams for the cities of with a capacity for up to 266 Smt. Vasundhara Raje. and Antwerp. The option passengers. Both variants are The project has been delivered is in addition to an original 2.3m wide. through the special purpose contract signed in September Roger Kesteloot, General vehicle Jaipur Metro Rail 2012 and is valued at EUR97m. Director of De Lijn, said: “The Corporation, with funding from It increases the number of Flexity 2 ABOVE: De Lijn Flexity 2 on display initial reaction to the ‘Albatros’ the State Government; the vehicles from to 88. at the Berlin InnoTrans exhibition in – the name that our passengers foundation stone was laid in 2011. Not only will the new trams September 2014. TAUT chose for the Flexity 2 trams – in Phase 1B will take the line length replace the operator’s ageing Ghent has been very positive. to 12.1km (7.5 miles), with Phase 2 to later add a further 23.8km fleet, but at nearly 43m long Ghent is to receive 16 bi- We are looking forward with (14.8 miles) on top of that figure. they can carry up to 40% more directional, 43m seven-section anticipation to the deliveries of passengers. trams, with a passenger capacity the 40 additional trams.”

Saturday 19 September 2015. arrive before 18 July. It must Nominations from the Attendance is open to all bear the signatures of at least membership for any of these LRTA members who produce a valid 20 current members. vacancies are also invited. AGM membership card. Three of the Association’s A nomination form is Any member wishing elected Directors (Andrew available from the Secretary, The Light Rail Transit to submit business for Braddock, Jim Harkins and but a completed letter of Association’s 78th Annual transaction is asked to notify Matt Johnston) will retire nomination will also be General Meeting (the 11th of the Secretary Peter Snook in by rotation at the AGM – accepted. A candidate must the Company) will take place writing at 138 Radnor Avenue, together with the Treasurer, be an LRTA member and at The Claremont Hotel, 18-22 Welling, Kent, DA16 2BY, UK Hans Retallick. Those retiring be proposed by two other Loch Promenade, Douglas, (e-mail [email protected], may offer themselves for re- members. The deadline for , IM1 2LX on phone +44 (0)7764 199365) to election for a further term. nominations is 18 July.

262 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Manchester invites Vienna plans automatic interest in Metrolink operations Transport for Greater Manchester (UK) has invited expressions of operation for new line U5 interest in the contract to operate and maintain the Metrolink light Austrian capital’s first driverless metro service to start in 2023 rail system. These will need to be submitted by 13 July and a new utomatic operation is to from Rathausplatz south to In addition, in 2014 a ten-year contract will begin in July 2017 come to Austrian capital Matzleinsdorfer Platz for EUR335m project named ‘NEU4’ and run for seven years, with a potential three-year extension. Wien (Vienna) in 2023, connection to S-Bahn services. has been started to refurbish The contract to operate and when operations start Work on the extension is expected line 4 that in addition to repairs maintain the current network Aon the new metro line U5. to begin in 2018, with operations also includes a series of upgrades, is held by Metrolink RATP Dev, U5 is intended to run initially to start in 2023. Proposals also such as to signalling and track. except maintenance of Phase 3, between Frankhplatz/Altes AKH exist for a future extension to Bombardier has received a firm which is within the design, and Karlsplatz, partly over the Wienerberg (possibly by 2027). order for a further 119 Flexity construct and maintain contract existing route of line U2. The The U5 and U2 projects are trams for Wiener Linien. The held by M-Pact Thales consortium. U5 project is a major part of not the only extensions taking contract is valued at roughly Elisabeth Borne appointed Vienna’s U-Bahn infrastructure place in the Austrian capital; line EUR431m and includes an as RATP CEO programme, which also includes U1 is being expanded by 4.6km option for a further 37 trams The President of the French creation of a new southern route (2.9 miles) from Reumannplatz and maintenance support. The Republic has appointed Elisabeth for line U2 and modernisation of to Oberlaa in a EUR600m project manufacturer had previously Borne to the post of RATP other parts of the network. intended for completion in 2017. been named preferred bidder. President and CEO, after the From 2023 U5 is expected National Assembly and Senate held hearings that ended in favour to take over the section of U2 of the appointment. running between Rathaus and Mrs Borne is a graduate of Karlsplatz, the section from the École Polytechnique and there to a new terminus on an inspector general of Ponts Frankhplatz/Altes AKH being et Chaussées. She has been a new construction. The project is technical advisor for urban expected to cost around EUR1bn. development and transport Further new construction since 1997, and was previously is intended to take U5 to a strategy director and member of the executive committee of SNCF. Elterleinplatz from Frankhplatz/ Since 2014 she has been chief Altes AKH by 2025, after which it of staff at the Ministry for will have eight stops. Ecology, Sustainable Development Wiener Linien is expected and Energy. to tender within weeks for the supply of up to 45 fully Optioned Variobahn automated trains for the new arrives in Croydon line. Trial running is planned to The first of the four additional Stadler Variobahn vehicles was take place from 2018. delivered by road to London In future, line U2 will ABOVE: A 3D rendering of the new Flexity LRVs to be delivered to Wiener Linien; (UK) over the weekend run over a new formation the new deal includes a 24-year maintenance agreement. Bombardier of May 3-4 from manufacturer Stadler Pankow. The new Croydon tram is numbered 2560 and is a follow-on from the initial order for six Berlin to award direct S-Bahn deal to DB delivered in 2012. That contract included an option clause for additional trams, which Transport Authorities in Berlin and process, and the direct award of with the winners of future for London has exercised to cater Brandenburg have announced operation of part of the system to tenders expected to take over in for increasing passenger numbers. plans for a direct contract award DB last year. stages between 2023 and 2026. The other three vehicles are for operation of further parts Included in the latest tranche Berin’s S-Bahn has suffered expected to arrive over the early of the German capital’s S-Bahn are lines S9, S45, S75, S7, S5 and high-profile problems in recent summer period. network. It follows the collapse S3 (Stadtbahn) as well as S85, years, following a wheel-break Douglas revamp approved of plans for a competitive S25, S15, S2, S1 (Nord-Süd). on a train in 2009. The network A GBP1.4m (approx. EUR1.9m) tender after all but incumbent Operations under the new deal is operated by DB subsidiary scheme to regenerate Douglas Deutsche Bahn pulled out of the would begin in December 2017, S-Bahn Berlin GmbH. station building, Isle of Man, to provide a larger mezzanine restaurant and a shop on the ground floor has been approved Metrolink Trafford Centre line public inquiry to start by a planning inspector. The approval requires the north- facing wall, which includes the A public inquiry into the between the Greater Manchester the Coronation Street television original ticketing windows and Transport and Works Act Order Combined Authority and the show which fears that noise from a map of the island’s railway, to for the Trafford Centre line UK Government. Trafford the trams will disrupt filming on remain unchanged with the new (Manchester, UK) is to begin on Metropolitan Borough Council is the new set created near Salford mezzanine stopping short of 7 July. The new Metrolink contributing GBP20m (EUR28m). Quays in 2013. joining the wall. line has an estimated cost of Earn Back is worth GBP900m A survey by JMW Solicitors, However, the decision has GBP350m (USD481m), which (EUR1.25bn) over 30 years. based on house sales over the been criticised by the Isle of Man includes ten new trams and will A public consultation on the last year, found a 15% increase Victorian Society. The Department be funded from borrowings 5.5km (3.4-mile) line showed in house prices across the region for Infrastructure will now seek approval for works to of GBP330m, serviced from 89% backing, but one of the but increases of as much as 122% start this winter. the Earn Back deal agreed objectors will be the producer of in areas served by Metrolink.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 263 News Congress agrees short-term funds Two-month authorisation given to allow essential US transit maintenance to continue

fter several weeks of House and Senate Leaders were for 58 years, the American Public Congress has been failed negotiations to unable to reach agreement on a Transit Association (APTA) urged arguing about how to pay for find almost USD11bn bill to extend the programmes Congress to use the two months infrastructure budgets since 2009, to fund the Highway through to the end of 2015, to to develop realistic and viable and fuel duty was last increased in ATrust Fund, on 20 May the US give Congress time to formulate options for a long-term solution. 1993, since when lower sales and House of Representatives passed a larger tax reform package that There is a USD88bn backlog more efficient cars have reduced a short-term surface transport would fund a multi-year surface just to get public transport tax income. The 18.4-cent/gallon authorisation valid until 31 July, transportation bill. infrastructure into a state of good tax buys only 11.3 cents today. avoiding the 31 May deadline With public transport repair, according to the Federal This is the 32nd short-term for the programme to expire. achieving its highest ridership Transit Administration. extension in recent years. JV opens new Algerian Kazakhstan tramway to be Citadis building facility built by Chinese consortium The capital of Kazakhstan, in the city centre with Astana which abandoned plans for International Airport. an supplied tramway The consortium will supply in 2013, has now signed a 19 Chinese-built LRVs for framework agreement with the line, which is predicted a consortium of China Rail to carry 83 000 passengers/ International Group and day, and open in time for Beijing State-Owned Assets the planned Expo 2017. The Management Co. to build a project was promoted by Mayor 22.4km (13.9-mile) light rail Adilbek Zhaksybekov, who line linking the railway station took office in October 2014.

Rail station & LRT depot

Intermodal transfer station ABOVE: A Citadis destined for Constantine was the 20th vehicle to roll off the new production line in Annaba, Algeria. Alstom The CITAL joint venture of at the site, and Alstom claims LRT Phase 3 Alstom, Entreprise du métro a further 200 will be built for d’Alger (EMA) and Ferrovial extensions to networks in marked the official inauguration Constantine and Oran, as well as of its 46 000m² Citadis assembly the under-construction systems and maintenance facility in in Ouargla, Mostaganem, Sidi Bel LRT Phase 2 Annaba, Algeria on 12 May, Abbès, Sétif, Batna and Annaba. initially employing 90 staff to However it appears that financial assemble five trams per month. considerations due to the fall in oil CITAL was established in 2011 prices is leading to some Algerian to assemble and maintain Citadis tramway plans being scaled Intermodal trams, and employs around 200 back. Perhaps due to this, the JV transfer station staff in total in Algeria, with agreement has been extended the remainder based across the to include the construction of country maintaining the trams railway trains as well. already in service in Algiers, CITAL is owned owned by Oran and Constantine. Ferrovial (41%), EMA (10%), Twenty trams for Constantine Alstom Algeria (6%) and Alstom have already been assembled SA (43%).

LRT Phase 1 Hamilton to get provincial funding The Canadian city of Hamilton year are predicted for 2031. Airport LRT depot will get CAD1bn (USD800m) Eventually the line could be from the Province of Ontario extended to 23km (14 miles). to cover the capital cost of the The Ontario Government planned 14km (8.7-mile) light rail will raise the funds by selling a line linking McMaster University minority stake in the Hydro One and Queenston Circle via the city energy company and expanding centre. There will be interchange the sale of beer to 450 more with WGO commuter rail at West locations (alcohol sales are a state Harbour station; 8m passengers/ monopoly in Ontario). A map of the proposed Astana tramway, planned to open in 2017..

264 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org CAF is LuxTram’s preferred bidder Promoter of new Luxembourg tramway turns to Spanish company for low-floor vehicles

he promoter of the new the Grand-Duchess Charlotte tramway for the capital Bridge (Pont Rouge). city of Luxembourg, Delivery of the new trams will LuxTram, has named start in early 2017, and it is hoped TCAF as preferred bidder for 21 to start commercial operation on 100% low-floor 45m trams at a the first section of line before the price of EUR83m. Other bidders end of that year. were Alstom and Stadler. Trams will operate every three Luxtram has already started minutes in peak periods and each construction of the depot 2.65m-wide car will carry up to and maintenance centre in 450 passengers, giving a capacity Kirchberg, and aims to complete of nearly 10 000 passengers/ this by the end of the year, hour/direction. enabling the first tracks for RIGHT: The CAF trams for the 16km (ten-mile), 24-stop Luxembourg will be similar to those route to be laid in early 2016. built recently for Midland Metro, The EUR346m project will also although final design details should feature wire-free operation emerge in the coming months. between the railway station and M. R. Taplin

Sheffield endorses RET tram drivers the toast of Europe ‘strategic hub’ The future of transport delivery in The final of the 4th European the UK’s Sheffield City Region (SCR) Tram Drivers contest took place will be shaped via a new Strategic in Wien (Vienna) on 25 April, Hub and Customer Strategy with 23 teams competing. First under proposals endorsed by the placed were Orlando Cairo and SCR Combined Authority. The Strategic Hub will be responsible Will Breur from RET Rotterdam, for co-ordination, development with second and third placed and delivery of SCR’s strategy teams from Wien and Ostrava. and policy functions, currently The championship supports delivered by South Yorkshire the exchange of experiences Passenger Transport Executive, amongst drivers and managers and will sit within the Sheffield City and promotes cultural exchange Region Executive Team. through workshops and a party SYPTE will be responsible for involving the contestants and development and delivery of a new customer strategy focusing visitors. The next contest will be on public transport and customer in Berlin in April 2016. service operations, as well as TramEM is a concept of delivering the plans and strategies SAM Production, that organised of the SCR Executive to the the first contest in Dresden ABOVE: This year’s tram driving contest was held at the central workshops of the travelling public. in 2012. Vienna tramway. TramEM

Central Mesa extension to open in Atlanta’s six-line August – seven months early streetcar vision After opening its starter On 3 June Valley Metro to the network. It is funded by tramway on 30 December, plans have been unveiled announced that the extension a combination of regional and for a streetcar network of the LRT system that serves the federal contributions, having for the city of Atlanta, GA, city of Phoenix into downtown received a USD75m Federal totalling 80km (50 miles). Mesa is to open seven months Transit Administration (FTA) The plans call for a early – on 22 August. grant in late 2012. six-line system, mostly “This is a very exciting The first 32km (20 miles) contained within the future day for Mesa,” said Mayor of the Phoenix LRT system BeltLine project that aims to John Giles. “I’m proud of the opened in December 2008 provide a network of green professional staff involved in and in 2014 carried 72m spaces linked by multi-use trails and sustainable this. The city and Valley Metro passengers. Eight further transport solutions. did a great job on this project, extensions are planned or are In addition to one which is being delivered ahead under construction that will orbital line running of schedule and on budget.” create an extensive 106km around the BeltLine, It’s anticipated the 4.8km (66-mile) system by 2034. the plan forsees three (three-mile) extension, which For more on Phoenix’s light east-west lines and two began construction in June rail development plans, see NEWS IN PICTURES running north-south. 2012, will add 5000 daily riders TAUT 923.

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A six-car Inspiro train arriving at Świętokrzyska station on the opening day of line M2, 8 March 2015. Each station has its characteristic colour, with platform walls adorned with enamel panels with artistic station names. Witold Urbanowicz

Over the last decade, the Polish Workers entered the first construction The most serious incident during site in September 2010, with other construction occurred in August 2012 on capital has undergone a metro locations following the next year; works the site of Centrum Nauki Kopernik station. and tramway transformation. were simultaneous at all sites, bringing This was a very difficult station to construct, severe disruption in the city centre. The with part of it located under the Wisłostrada Witold Urbanowicz presents construction of stations and ventilation road tunnel, close to the river. The a comprehensive overview of shafts by cut-and-cover methods affected station consists of two shafts, located on streets, trams and even at some points the both sides of the road tunnel; they are joined the developments so far, and first metro line – yet the citizens of Warsaw at platform level with three parallel tunnels the growth still to come. proved very patient. In May 2012 the first (for two tracks and one platform) excavated TBM, one of four ordered from Herrenknecht using more traditional mining methods. he development of the modest for the contract, started drilling the tunnels During the drilling of the first tunnel a metro network in Warsaw was and initial works proceeded well, with the leak appeared. The underground levels always a matter of need and daily record set at 43.5m. quickly filled with wet earth from desire. Finally, on 8 March 2015 Not everything proceeded as intended, underneath the road tunnel, which was the central section of the second however, and the project’s difficulties were thus deprived of a stable substrate. This Tline opened for passengers. Metro expansion, many and varied: unidentified underground necessitated construction teams to cease with EU co-funding secured, will remain utilities; protracted discussions with utility all works and the subsequent closure of the an investment priority for the next few owners; discovery of archaeological objects; Wisłostrada tunnel. The contractor filled the years, with companies already bidding for problems with handing over the construction station with water from the Vistula to balance extending the new line in both directions. sites; adverse weather conditions and the the pressure and was forced to stabilise the The M2 story began in late October discovery of around 450 items of unexploded road tunnel and strengthen the ground. 2009, when the city authorities signed a ordnance from World War Two. The starting point of two TBMs had to be contract for the design and construction Finally, in 2013, and on the basis of a changed and the construction of this station of the central section of the second metro settlement, the deadline was postponed by stopped for a long period – work only resumed line with a consortium of (), 11 months – until the end of September 2014. at the beginning of 2014, fortunately this Gülermak (Turkey) and Przedsiebiorstwo time without any further obstacles. Budowy Dróg i Mostów (Poland), which then Construction problems By comparison, problems at other sites created the AGP Metro joint venture for this Warsaw offers difficult geological were fairly minor: partial collapse of the street task. The contractor received exactly four conditions, with unstable earth and soft surface, tram track, and landslides in the area years to conduct all works. clay underpinning much of the city. of residential buildings. Cracks also started

266 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org ABOVE: On opening day of the second line, President of Warsaw Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz, presents a map that compares the current second metro line with plans from 1938. Martyn Janduła RIGHT: station on 8 March 2015. Witold Urbanowicz to appear in houses in the borough, focused on the communication between Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz, the President of though many of these buildings had been in trains and the new signalling system, Warsaw, announced that passenger service a serious state of disrepair for many years. provided by Bombardier. would begin on 14 December 2014; this date The new Inspiro rolling stock, The service is mostly automated, but as proved to be unrealistic, however, and a bought for the expanded two-line network, Jerzy Lejk, head of Metro Warszawskie, says, fire attributed to the Uninterruptible Power also faced issues, resulting in the most serious the option of a ‘driverless metro with a driver’ Supply batteries at one of the stations saw the incident in the history of the Warsaw Metro. was chosen, as the question ‘is there a pilot in opening postponed indefinitely. In November 2013, just a month and a half this plane?’ is still important for passengers. after the inauguration of the new trains into The driver initiates departure, with the Opening on a small scale service, a current shoe collector detached, system adjusting operational speed and Finally, on 8 March 2015 the central section leading to a short circuit and a discharge of stopping the train at the station. It also allows was brought into passenger service. The date current. The affected train came to a stop in an automatic change of direction, without was given with just a few days notice, and the the tunnel and smoke appeared. Fortunately, driver intervention, at the terminus. In an time (09.30) was announced on the day itself. after a short stop the driver managed to emergency the dispatcher can remotely pilot The opening ceremony, on the concourse move the train to the nearest station, where a train to the next station, stop it or order it of Świetokrzyska station, was very brief with passengers were evacuated. This potentially to pass a station without stopping. Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz, the re-elected serious incident ended with no casualties, Works formally concluded on 30 September President of Warsaw, giving a 90-second but the new trains were taken out of service 2014, with work continuing at Centrum speech: “It’s a historic moment. I would for months while the causes were determined Nauki Kopernik station until the last moment. like to thank the citizens of Warsaw for and necessary changes implemented. The line was then ready for commissioning, their patience during all these years of The TBMs finished drilling by the end of testing and personnel training. inconvenience, but starting from tomorrow November 2013 and in June 2014 the first This was also the time for local council they can set their alarm clocks a bit later. train entered the first completed section of elections, with the metro investment This construction was a big technological the second line and intensive testing began, forming an important part of the political challenge for us, but there is no doubt that campaign. An open day was organised the new line will change Warsaw – not only BELOW: Centrum Nauki Kopernik station, the tunnel in background sits under the Wisłostrada on 9 November 2014, and Prime Minister the districts through which it will pass.” road tunnel. Martyn Janduła Ewa Kopacz rode the line five days later. Around 230 000 passengers used the line on 9 March, and it now averages around 100 000 passengers/day – by comparison, the first line is used by over 550 000 passengers/day. Seven stations are located on the new 6km (3.7-mile) line. The shallowest platforms are at Stadion Narodowy and Dworzec Wilenski (13m below ground level), while the deepest is the platform at Nowy Świat-Uniwersytet (23m). Tunnels pass under the first line at Świetokrzyska, while the tunnels under the Vistula are 870m (0.54 miles) long and are located between Centrum Nauki Kopernik and Stadion Narodowy stations. The two lines are linked by a technical 533m (0.33-mile) single-track tunnel that connects the south tunnel of the second line at Rondo ONZ with the west tunnel of the first line at Centrum. The tunnel diameter is 5.4m and the platform length is 120m, enough to accommodate a six-car train. Sidings are located at the termini – Rondo Daszynskiego and Dworzec Wilenski – with additional stabling tracks behind the second platform at Stadion Narodowy. An additional

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BELOW: An Inspiro train departing towards the next station on 8 March. In the first few days of operation the lights in tunnels were switched on to allow the train drivers to familiarise themselves with the new infrastructure. Martyn Janduła

ABOVE: M2 is deeper than the first metro line and has some impressive changes of depth; this is Nowy Świat-Uniwersytet station. Martyn Janduła scissors crossover is located at Rondo ONZ to The first stage is the ‘3+3’, extending the After completion of these two additional allow smooth connection with the technical second line in either direction by three phases, M2 will be nearly finished. On the tunnel of the first line. stations: to Ksiecia Janusza on the western north-east section trains will reach the The design of all the new stations is similar. section, passing through the borough, intended final terminal, whilst on the west At platform level there are one or two rows of and to Trocka (ex-Targówek II) on the north- sections three stations towards Połczynska, concrete columns, which expand at the top east section, through Targówek. with a depot at Mory, will still be missing. to form chalices. False ceilings of aluminum In mid-October 2014 Metro Warszawskie The city authorities have decided to leave cubes form a wave design and each station announced a tender for companies looking the last section for another EU Financial is assigned a different colour that dominates to construct the 3+3 – two will be chosen Perspective; however the Kabaty depot at the platform finishes and characteristic entrances, for each side. The original deadline was set end of the first line – even with some train which form a letter ‘M’ (they have been for the end of March 2015, but over 1300 stabling in tunnels – won’t be sufficient to nicknamed ‘butterflies’). Station walls are questions to the specifications were sent by serve such an expanded network, and the decorated with enamel murals with artistic companies interested in the contracts and so technical tunnel linking the two lines will be station names, designed by 92-year-old the deadline was extended to the end of July. at a critical point. A solution for the second Wojciech Fangor, the famous Polish artist Price will be a deciding factor (90% weighting extension will be urgently needed and there and sculptor. The walls at concourse level are of points) and contractors will have 38 are already preliminary discussions centred decorated with black basalt or backlit glass. months for construction, beginning from the around the construction of a new tunnel, Interesting features have been used at date of signing the contract. It is envisaged with the last stations left unfinished, to reach Świetokrzyska and Centrum Nauki Kopernik that the 3+3 will be ready for 2019. the location of a new depot. for the escalator shafts, which are placed in a For the second phase, the line will also be Białołeka borough council has also glass tube with LED lights placed irregularly simultaneously extended in two directions campaigned to either divert the north-east behind the panels. Also at Świetokrzyska, (the so-called 3+2 sections). To the west two section of the second line (and change the enormous LED panels allow animations stations will be constructed, reaching the location of the last station) or to construct a and other images to be screened. Stadion intersection of Powstanców Slaskich and branch to serve the rapidly developing areas Narodowy, one of the bigger stations, features Górczewska streets in Bemowo boroughs. north of Trasa Torunska. The city authorities platforms that open to concourse level In the north-east, towards Bródno, three decided to construct the second line in its and mesh columns that allow sunlight to stations are planned – with the last at planned alignment, but responded by leaving penetrate from the street above. the intersection of Rembielinska and a provision for the future branch. One of the Twelve trains are required for peak service, Kondratowicza streets. initial conditions of the competition for the with a headway of 2 minutes 50 seconds; At the end of 2014 Metro Warszawskie concepts for the second stage was to include journey time is around 12 minutes. The line announced a competition for architectural such a provision; this condition was later operates 05.00-00.40, with additional trains and building concepts for the stations of the removed as it would require the demolition running on Friday and Saturday nights until 3+2 stage. Again, design companies can only of housing. For now it seems unlikely that the 03.00. Currently, the process of switching off apply for one section – either the two stations branch will be constructed. the semaphores in tunnels is taking place, on the west side, or three stations on the with train operation based on cab signalling north-east section. The companies interested Third line uncertain that allows the running of tighter headways. in participating had until 29 May to submit During construction of M2’s central section applications, from which shortlisted entrants a second platform was constructed at Stadion What next? will be asked to submit detailed concepts. Narodowy; it is intended that this will be It is planned that 11 new stations and 12.2km Nine companies submitted applications used in the future by the system’s third line (7.6 miles) of tunnels will be constructed by before the deadline. Two winners will be (sometimes referred to as the south-east 2023, in two phases and using EU funding. invited to negotiations for a design contract. section of the second line, even though it will

268 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JERZY LEJK, HEAD OF METRO WARSZAWSKIE

Q With the delivery of the there were talks about selling the Russian-built 81-series metro trains. Are you still considering this? We did have such plans, but the whole A economic decision comes down to a financial calculation. For the time being we can not afford such an operation, since the possible revenue from selling these Russian cars is irrelevant from the point of view of the purchase of new trains in the future.

Q M2 expansion requires additional rolling stock – what are your plans? In the coming years we must obtain A financing for the purchase of new trains for two stages of development (3+3 and 3+2). Knowing the lengths of the tendering procedure, and later of the vehicle production, at the end of this year we should start preparing for a tender. Today we have sufficient trains for the first stage (3+3), but for obvious reasons they would have to run less frequently. However it has to be assumed that with the launch of the new stations passenger volumes will increase, and therefore we will need more trains. If we talk only about 3+3 then a few new trains would be sufficient, but we want any new order to also serve 3+2. We are talking about a substantial order of 30-35 trains. operate independently). The platforms are TOP: Stadion Narodowy station is unique in having two platforms and a construction opening to the upper side-by-side on one level, but a cross-platform level. Witold Urbanowicz interchange wasn’t envisioned, so for now the fully-equipped platform is closed for ABOVE LEFT: Sidings at Dworzec Wileński, seen on 9 November 2014. Witold Urbanowicz passengers and used for stabling trains. ABOVE RIGHT: The north tunnel under the Vistula river; for the first time on the Warsaw Metro, the second The third line would start at Gocław, line uses the concrete tube linings. Witold Urbanowicz passing through Wiatraczna tramway loop and Warszawa Wschodnia railway station new Skłodowskiej-Curie bridge (known renewed, with high-floor vehicles taken to Stadion Narodowy. For the next stage it locally as the North/Północny bridge) out of service – visitors to Warsaw might would be extended from Stadion via Rondo opened, while on 24 December 2014 an recall that just a few years ago the bus fleet Waszyngtona, under the Vistula river and extension of the route to Tarchomin Koscielny was dominated by the characteristic Ikarus crossing the first metro line at the Plac was inaugurated, with trams finally entering buses produced in . The MZA bus Konstytucji station, Plac Narutowicza, before this large residential complex. On 14 February operator also introduced a small number of reaching Warszawa Zachodnia station. 2015 a relatively short, but very important, gas, electric and hybrid buses (with more to This alignment has received a great deal of section opened on Powstanców Slaskich, follow under the new EU Perspective). criticism, with popular opinion suggesting between Górczewska and Radiowa, finally SKM, the city railway operator (introduced that it won’t solve the transport problems linking two separated parts of track on this in 2005), expanded its reach with new of the Gocław housing complex and that an street and creating a western tramway axis. destinations served on the existing network, indirect route – with interchange at Stadion The network has also seen impressive fleet previously underused in transport within the Narodowy – won’t attract large passenger renewal. The city procured 186 Pesa trams city, and a new underground station by the volumes. Therefore it is unclear if the third (including, for the first time, six bi-directional airport opening in 2012. line will be built and if there will be funding trams) in a deal dubbed ‘the contract of the available; one thing is certain, any project century’. 120Na Swing trams were delivered Challenges for the new Perspective won’t proceed until 2023 at the earliest. between 2010 and 2013, enabling the removal The new EU Perspective 2014-20 (with from service and scrapping of old 13N trams, a three-year extension) brings new Expanding the tramway which in some cases had served the capital for opportunity. Although the main focus will be Although metro expansion is a priority more than 50 years. on extending the second metro line, a lot of for the Polish capital, other modes will see Tramwaje Warszawskie didn’t stop there. tramway expansion projects will be given the significant future funding, including a focus In 2013 another contract was signed with go-ahead, totalling 20km (12 miles) of track. on tramway infrastructure and new routes. Pesa for 45 bi-directional 128N Jazz Duo Formal decisions about investments were Recent years have seen contracts for large trams (with a further five added in 2014), the announced at the beginning of June 2015, fleets of new low-floor trams, and in Poland first of which entered service on 21 November with commitments to trams and buses transport projects are now measured by EU 2014. At the beginning of 2014 a contract for amounting to around PLN3bn (EUR700m). Financial Perspectives. As local transport 30 short 134N Jazz trams was also signed with The new 2.4km (1.5-mile) line to projects don’t receive federal funding, Pesa, the first of which arrived in March 2015. Tarchomin Kościelny will be extended European cohesion funds have proved a big Fleet renewal should be complete by the end further along Światowida Street – in two help for the nation’s cities. of 2015, meaning that under the 2007-13 phases, firstly to Nowodwory and then Compared to the construction of the EU Financial Perspective the astonishing Winnica. Another route will see trams return, central section of the second metro line, number of 266 new trams will be introduced. but on a new alignment, to serve the western tramway expansion wasn’t as spectacular. Other transport companies also saw part of Kasprzaka Street. The service west of In early 2013 a new section of track on the significant investment. The bus fleet was Skierniewicka was ‘suspended’ in 1990 in

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 269 Warsaw

connection with construction of the Prymasa preparatory works may last three years and MICHAŁ OLSZEWSKI, Tysiaclecia thoroughfare. Although tracks the construction could start in 2018. DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF were lifted where the new flyovers were It is planned that 50 bi-directional trams constructed, on other sections they remain in will be bought for the Wilanów line. This WARSAW AND THE HEAD place – a few years ago they were covered with will allow the construction to proceed in OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS earth. The final effect was interesting: a lawn phases. A bigger problem is appropriate FOR METRO WARSZAWSKIE with overhead wires. accommodation, as there is no space to This time trams will run directly to expand the city’s existing depots. A new What are the city’s Wolska Street, serving a part of Kasprzaka facility, located on the east side of Annopol Q transport plans during Street that never saw trams. It is intended Street in the north-east part of the city, is the new EU Financial that trams will use the current road tunnel currently being designed. Perspective 2014-20? on the intersection of Kasprzaka and Wolska. The Ministry of What is more, existing tram tracks on Tramway wins over BRT A Infrastructure and Development has granted Wolska prior to the junction will be moved The most surprising commitment is the us funding for low-emission to the middle of the road. The new route tramline to the Gocław residential complex transport, including rail and bus. The priority is will serve another rapidly developing part on the right bank of Vistula, south of of course expansion of the second metro line, of the city south of Kasprzaka and Wolska Waszyngtona Avenue. This massive complex but otherwise from these funds we want to build where new apartments replace old factories. is served by a frequent bus service, but the new tramlines – in addition to the proposals of The trams will also connect to Rondo high passenger numbers qualify for a better the new route to Wilanów, there are also new Daszynskiego metro station and the route solution. However, until now the city seemed lines in Służewiec (on al. Wilanowska) and Wola could open in 2018. Tramwaje Warszawskie to favour – despite a strong public campaign (on Kasprzaka Street), which are de facto missing is currently applying for an environmental for a tram – a BRT service, and in the longer links of the network. There is also a proposal to implement an electric bus project, which we decision, necessary before formal term the third metro line. would like to run on the sections where there is construction approval is issued. For both However, this its alignment is also no possibility of introducing rail transport. We investments – Nowodwory/Winnica and criticised; services from Gocław will run on want to buy 130 low-emission buses. Kasprzaka – it has been announced that ten an indirect route only to Stadion Narodowy, From a separate funding scheme, our new trams will bought. where passengers will need to change before operator – Szybka Kolej Miejska (SKM), which An important addition to the tramway, reaching the city centre. Nevertheless, as operates city railway lines – will seek funding which also is very likely, is the new 10km mentioned earlier, the second platform at to buy rolling stock to serve new routes, (six-mile) Dworzec Zachodni – Wilanów line. Stadion Narodowy metro station has already especially the ring line and Radom line to Piaseczno, on the condition that they will Wilanów had trams until 1973, when the route been constructed and it would be hard for the be renovated by PKP PLK, the national was closed in the era of car fascination and authorities to admit that this additional space administrator of railway infrastructure. replaced by an expanded highway. This time would never be used for its intended purpose. Nor can we forget the depot on Szczęśliwice, trams will serve a changed route, consisting The newly-announced 4.3km (2.7-mile) which is the absolute necessity for further of three sections linked to existing network. line will run along Kamionkowski canal, east development of the company. The first, in Ochota district, will start at of Miedzynarodowa Street, reaching Egipska Dworzec Zachodni (West railway station), Street and then via Bora-Komorowskiego to There has been long discussion on how passing along Bitwy Warszwskiej 1920 r. Gocław terminus. The whole route will be Q the Gocław district should be served. Street to the existing tracks on Grójecka and constructed as a segregated alignment for Why was a tramway finally chosen, despite previous talks about BRT? Banacha streets. The existing stub line on trams and buses and it has been announced We have analysed different options and Banacha will be extended to Rakowiecka that 18 new trams will be required. Counting A this project has a very low rate of return. Street, located on the other side of the Pole all the new investments, a total of 78 new However, in preparing the strategic documents, Mokotowskie, a green field. Trams will run on trams will be required. we had to name a specific project and we could its southern edge and along Rakowiecka Street. On the reserve list of projects are 40 new not include, for example, a general project of The longest section (8.3km/5.2 miles) will trams (without a specified new route to transport solutions for Gocław. After some link al. Niepodległosci and Pole Mokotowskie serve), various infrastructure modernisation analysis, we've confirmed that we can metro station with Wilanów; trams will pass schemes and a new 1.4km (0.9-mile) line on implement a tramway project and the Ministry has confirmed that it can receive funding. along Rakowiecka, Goworka, Spacerowa, Wilanowska Avenue between Wilanowska This project includes a segregated ‘tram- Sobieskiego and al. Rzeczypospolitej. The metro station and Słuźewiec tramway loop bus’ lane, so we can incorporate a new mode terminus is planned by Branickiego Street, so to serve the white-collar borough. The city of transport and additionally improve the trams will serve the new Miasteczko Wilanów authorities hope that additional funding bus service. We assume therefore that we are residential development. It is estimated that will become available (during the 2007-13 creating a new transport corridor for Gocław. We have a unique situation in Warsaw. We are building in a city five times larger than Paris in terms of space, but with the same number of citizens. When comparing the number of metro and tramway lines, it is clear that trams in Warsaw have a significant role. However, I don’t think that the tram undermines a metro line to Gocław.

But will there be funds for the third Q metro line to Gocław? At the moment, if nothing changes in the A rules for granting EU funds, another Financial Perspective is still available for Warsaw, though probably on different terms. In my opinion we can easily consider such a project in the long term. I also assume that we will be finishing the second metro line to Mory on the western section.

Q There have been discussions of a branch of the second metro line to Białołęka district – what are the chances of this? ABOVE: Characteristic entrances to M2 in the form ABOVE: The very first Konstal 105N car, 1000, was No, it is not even included in the strategic of a giant letter M have been nicknamed ‘butterflies’. recently immaculately restored. Seen on Powstańców A documents. The blue indicates that this is Dworzec Wileński Śląskich on 14 February 2015, the inauguration day of station. Witold Urbanowicz a new section of tramway. Martyn Janduła

270 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org KRZYSZTOF KAROS, HEAD OF TRAMWAJE WARSZAWSKIE

Q What are your main investment plans in the coming years? The city authorities are A working on a list of projects for which Tramwaje Warszawskie and other city units will apply for EU funding. One such project is the route to Wilanów, which I think will receive acceptance. We don't have much time. We need to prepare an application for an environmental decision as the alignment, passing through the outskirts of Pole Mokotowskie green field, will be surely discussed among the citizens and NGOs, but I'm sure that the grassed tracks on Rostafińskich will be accepted. Then we need to announce a tender for project documentation. We are now close to the ABOVE: Opening day of the new tramway route on Powstańców Śląskich, 14 February 2015, with historic Western model: in the past construction lasted trams also in operation as 102N ‘kanciak’ passes a new 120Na tram. 102N trams never operated in ten years, whilst the preparatory works lasted a Warsaw, evidenced by the green livery of the Poznań undertaking, however one tram of this series is included year and there was a quick path for a decision. in the historic fleet of Tramwaje Warszawskie. Martyn Janduła Now the proportions are different: construction BELOW LEFT: The first, unannounced, passenger run of the bi-directional Pesa 128N Jazz Duo on 21 November lasts for a year, while the preparatory work is 2014, seen at the Metro Ratusz Arsenał stop. Witold Urbanowicz much longer. In this case we need around 30-36 months to BELOW RIGHT: New bi-directional Pesa 128N Jazz Duo trams in Warsaw seen on Targowa Street, April 2015. have all necessary documentation and choose Due to the tram’s frontal design, they have been nicknamed ‘kiosks’. Martyn Janduła the contractor. The section from Dworzec Zachodni to Grójecka Street is completely independent and for the whole project we plan to buy bi-directional trams; it won't be a problem to build and operate the rest of the route in phases.

As space is currently a premium, what Q stage is the new Annopol depot at? We don't have any free stabling space at the A existing premises and the new tracks at Żoliborz and Mokotów depots are virtually full. We have chosen a company that will prepare project documentation and help us in applying for all necessary decisions. We are now buying land and currently have around half of the necessary parcels.

Tramwaje Warszawskie has purchased The tramline on Kasprzaka Q a significant number of new trams in Street, suspended in recent years. The oldest 13N trams were 1990, is to be reinstated. taken out of service. What are the plans for In mid-2007 the tracks the next few years? were covered with grass, It all depends on funding. Any additional although the OLE remains A money will be spent on renewing the fleet in place. Witold Urbanowicz and taking out of service trams from the 1980s that haven’t been converted to thyristor control. Now, the oldest trams in passenger service date back to 1984. They may serve the capital for a long period yet, but it's not a standard that we would expect in the 21st Century. However, for us the priority is to increase the number of trams for Wilanów and other new planned routes. For these reasons it won't be a shame if we ride for a few more years on the older fleet. In Vienna there are trams that have been running for almost 40 years, but it is important to keep them well-maintained, safe and to ensure maximum comfort for passengers.

EU Perspective a lot of reserve projects northern axis would appear, linking five signficance of public . received funding). existing routes – on the right bank of the According to recent research, 55-60% of Smaller investments from Tramwaje Vistula at Budowlana and Jagiellonska people travelling around the city now Warszawskie’s own funds include additional streets and on the left bank at Wilsona use public transport, a figure not seen tracks at junctions, so that trams turning Square, Popiełuszki and Broniewskiego in many European cities. However, car in different directions don’t obstruct each Street. This line would improve access to ownership is also growing so it is important other. Sidings or crossovers in a few locations the new Annopol depot, but it seems that to introduce measures to discourage are also planned for the bi-directional trams. it is – for now – postponed indefinitely. people from using their cars, while on the There were also plans to construct the All of these transportation investments other hand making public transport more Krasnskiego bridge with a tramline. A new are necessary to maintain the growing attractive.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 271 Rolling stock analysis SHAKING UP THE ROLLING STOCK MARKET

With major mergers and ABOVE: Bombardier’s tram and light rail business is important to the Canadian-owned conglomerate’s wider rail interests, with contracts across Europe, North America, Asia and Australasia. Significant recent acquisitions being finalised orders include new low-floor trams for the German cities of Düsseldorf and Köln; seen here is a computer- – and more rumoured for the generated image of the latest Flexity design for Düsseldorf. Bombardier near future – Michael Taplin “Of course once a market becomes the dominant offers an early analysis of what the future may hold territory of a few manufacturers, new companies will for the world’s biggest tram emerge to challenge them; some will make a success of and metro car builders. it [with] shorter delivery times and keener prices.”

hese days nothing stands still even if the finished product had to be sent for a while. But if your competitors have the for very long in the world of halfway across Europe. As the manufacturers same cost base, perhaps it does not matter business. Forty years ago the grew, with more facilities at their disposal, (although the high cost of US LRVs cannot companies manufacturing specialisation came to the fore with the final be blamed entirely on superior buff-strength railway rolling stock – including assembly plant putting together mechanical requirements). Ttrams and metro cars – were names that had and electrical parts from a number of So names we are familiar with today – been familiar for decades, and there was different factories. And the electrical Alstom, AnsaldoBreda, Bombardier, Siemens usually a particular geographical relevance, equipment became a much more significant et al – have a multi-faceted history. Of course not just between different countries, but part of the total than when two controllers once a market becomes the dominant also between the different regions within and four motors were all that were needed. territory of a few manufacturers, new them. EU tendering rules were barely off the With North America fast becoming a companies will emerge to challenge them; ground, so the local factory of the traditional growth market for LRVs, the Buy America some will make a success of it, living off their local manufacturer often won the order. protectionism legislation caused international ability to offer shorter delivery times and The creation of a true common manufacturers to wonder how they might keener prices thanks to lower overheads. market in Europe, and the increasing compete, even though their products were Our annual rolling stock orders survey (see internationalisation of the manufacturers often technically more advanced than the TAUT 928) has in recent years introduced through mergers and acquisitions, changed few surviving domestic products (which names such as CAF, Pesa, Solaris, Stadler and all this. No-one, apart from a few left of soon disappeared, the dreadful Boeing-Vertol Vossloh, which may have long histories but centre politicians, cared much any more LRV being the last gasp). The answer was of were not so relevant to vehicle manufacture where their trams came from; the order course to set up a local manufacturing base, until recently. went to the manufacturer offering the a seemingly expensive solution that had to However Vossloh has already decided on lowest price that met the specification, be absorbed into the price of the products a course to divest its rail vehicle interest,

272 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org either in its entirety or in parts, by 2017 as it restructures around a core business of track products and infrastructure activities and focuses primarily on four defined markets: Western Europe, China, USA and . Meanwhile, PESA and Stadler have already had their fingers burnt selling in the Russian market as the Rouble took a tumble in value and other manufacturers’ interests in joint ventures have cooled slightly. Looming over all this is the Far East, and particularly the rise of China in the world economy; a booming domestic market for tramways and metro systems now underpins both their development and export efforts. Chinese-built vehicles have crept further west, at present as far as Turkey, but even crossing the Atlantic to reach Boston in terms of a major metro car order. A new light rail system in Africa (Addis Ababa) is also equipped with Chinese trams. A framework agreement signed in May should also see Chinese trams running in Astana, Kazakhstan in time for Expo 2017. This year and next will therefore see more regrouping as international manufacturers ABOVE: Vossloh’s rolling stock arm has seen modest success in the light rail markets, although its tram-train look to improve their balance sheets and stay platforms may make it an attractive proposition for any manufacturer looking to strengthen its LRT portfolio. TAUT in business. state interest – to stand on its own, beating sector Bombardier has led the field with A year of transition off a rival proposal for a merger with Siemens, orders this decade. But the Canadian Alstom Transport has a strong order book, which the French Government definitely holding company Bombardier Inc needs up 61% on last year, mainly thanks to did not want. The energy businesses are cash to bolster its aerospace activities – with the railway sector, but with some notable now classed as discontinued operations, and a slowdown in the market for large business extensions to its established tram market, in future the company will be focused on jets and well-publicised delays and budget in Australia and Canada for instance. The transport and some residual joint ventures in overruns in the development of its latest French multinational is, however, burdened energy. A charge under the US Foreign Corrupt C Series jet – and Transportation could be by losses in its power generation business, Practices Act has resulted in a EUR720m fine, affected by the merger of Chinese giants but later this year this will be sold (subject to and EUR100m has been written off from CSR and CNR, which is likely to strengthen EU approval) to US-based General Electric for the Russian joint venture with Transmash the latter’s Research and Development and EUR12.4bn. Those whose memories stretch Holdings due to the decline in value of the product development. back to the 1989-98 operation of the Franco- Rouble. It is hoped to increase operating On 7 May Bombardier Inc confirmed that it British GEC-Alsthom (which can still be margins from the present 5.1% to 7%. is preparing for an Initial Public Offering of a seen on the kickplates of some Underground Bombardier Transportation is another minority stake in its Transportation business trains) may detect a certain irony here. success story. The firm’s 2014 rail order in the last quarter of 2015. This move to Anyway the GE deal will enable the book stands at USD12.6bn, compared with create a separate publicly traded company Transport division – now with a 20% French USD8.8bn in 2013, and in the tram/LRV should strengthen the group’s financial

ABOVE: Contracts for Chinese systems are largely awarded to domestic companies using established designs licensed from western firms, such as the Flexity 2 design built by CSR Nanjing Puzhen for Nanjing. D Schulz

RIGHT: CSR Sifang recently revealed a hydrogen fuel cell low-floor prototype, adding to its work on supercapacitor and battery traction power, proving that its development is on a par with everything the western manufacturers are offering. S. Xuechun, courtesy of CSR Sifang

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 273 Rolling stock analysis

RIGHT: AnsaldoBreda’s low-floor Sirio design is a familiar sight in many Italian and Turkish cities (seen here in Kayseri), although contracts in more western European cities have been few and far between. The proposed takeover of the manufacturer by Hitachi Rail gives the Japanese conglomerate a much greater presence outside its native markets. AnsaldoBreda

ABOVE: Alstom has seen great success in North Africa over the last few years, and in May officially inaugurated its joint venture manufacturing facility in Annaba, Algeria, to serve future tramways in the region. Citadis 117 is seen on the streets of Constantine in 2014. M. Russell

“The next 12 months will mark something of a watershed recurring reliability and durability issues. A further bid for controlling interest of in the rolling stock market. If the Chinese arrive in as big Ansaldo STS is then surely only a matter of time. By integrating both the rolling stock a way as many predict, it will probably be on the basis and signalling and telecoms businesses gives Hitachi a much greater manufacturing of price. Will the other groups be able to match them?” profile in Europe, as well as a broader offering across the rail market. position, but preserve flexibility as world Bombardier and Škoda. It seems pretty Finmeccanica’s net debt will reduce by trends develop. The IPO listing is likely to be certain that trams for China will be built EUR600m with the deal, leaving it with carried out in , where Bombardier in China, but building scores more for the aerospace, defence, space and security Transportation has its headquarters, and western market to take advantage of the interests. Hitachi has said that it recognised various business media sources in recent economies of scale is a distinct possibility. the expertise that would be contributed to its weeks have quoted ‘insiders’ who say that Is it then any wonder that the western European ambitions by both AnsaldoBreda the merged Chinese rolling stock manufacturers are re-organising so they and Ansaldo STS, but it remains to be seen conglomerate is interested in taking a stake can match the sort of prices that a Chinese how it may seek to either rationalise or to further expand its influence in the manufacturer can charge? expand the joint estates, and cope with the European market. Just across the East China Sea is Japan, likely reaction of Italian trade unions to any So what of the future giant Chinese a country where the tram has a relatively consequent rationalisation. Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC)? small role in city transport but the commuter The two existing state-owned rolling stock railway in many varied shapes and sizes Questions, questions… manufacturers, CSR and CNR announced (including metros) provides good business So what will this mean for the transportation terms for a merger at the end of 2014. The for several manufacturers, although mode we follow so closely? At the time two companies are each made up of several individual orders are smaller. Western of writing there are more questions than manufacturing plants that have a large manufacturers never get a look in on this answers, but it is clear that the next 12 degree of autonomy in terms of developing market, and the Japanese have not been months will mark something of a watershed their own products and also chasing orders, particularly aggressive in fighting for orders in the global rolling stock market. both domestic and overseas. They are listed in the west – though Kinkisharyo has done If the Chinese arrive in western markets in on the Shanghai and Hong Kong stock very well in the US. a big way as many predict, it will probably be exchanges, and their combined revenue in Hitachi Rail is now a familiar name in the on the basis of price. Will the other groups 2012 was HKD200bn (EUR23bn), more than UK thanks to success in winning the order be able to match them? Will Hitachi be twice that of Bombardier. They have 90% for the next generation of high-speed trains able to turn AnsaldoBreda into a viable of China’s domestic market, so the planned for the East Coast and Great Western lines competitor, and will its monorail expertise merger is intended to improve the ability of as well as EMUs for ScotRail. Looking to be further developed for European or North the merger organisation to compete in the firm up its European presence as significant American markets? international marketplace. growth prospects in its home territories What role will regulatory bodies play After many years of rapid metro expansion remain slim, on 24 February it signed an in preserving European manufacturing while trams were ignored, the tram is now agreement to buy the Napoli-based Italian (suppose CRRC decided to buy that share seen as having a significant future for many rolling stock manufacturer AnsaldoBreda of Bombardier transport that will come Chinese cities, reaching the parts the metro from the state-owned Finmeccanica, and to the market)? Will some of the smaller does not in a more affordable manner. If the also Finmeccanica’s 40% stake in manufacturers follow Vossloh in deciding most optimistic predictions come true, there Genova-based signalling and train control there is not enough money in the vehicle is a market for hundreds of new trams each company Ansaldo STS. market to be worth continuing their interest? year over the next decade, and the modern Hitachi will pay EUR773m for Ansaldo STS, One thing is certain; we shall have plenty products to satisfy this market have been but just EUR36m for AnsaldoBreda, to write about as the next 12 months unfold developed by partnerships with certain reflecting the recent poor performance of the and the year ahead is going to offer some very familiar names: Alstom, AnsaldoBreda, company in markets outside Italy, dogged by interesting prospects.

274 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Wheel/rail interface UNDERSTANDING THE WHEEL/RAIL INTERFACE In the first of a two-part series, Bob Hall looks at the complex interaction between steel wheel and steel rail and asks why incompatible railway expertise is still being applied to tramway construction.

he 50-year gap between the end of the ‘first generation’ tramways in the UK and the introduction of ‘second generation’ lines has meant that much of the accumulatedT experience of planners, engineers and builders has been lost. This loss of knowledge and the misplaced belief that heavy rail experience could be read over into design has resulted in a number of expensive problems. In these articles I will concentrate on the misapprehension that wheel-flange guidance from the integral check of girder (grooved) rail is undesirable and must be avoided. This can result in curving problems and tracks becoming life-expired far sooner than necessary.

Introducing the issues First generation British tramways – and the majority of networks outside the UK, both long established and new – ensured that outer and inner rails of curved tracks (known as low and high) each provide a nominal 50% of the lateral thrust needed to get a car round a curve. To achieve this checks had sufficient thickness to accommodate the same level of wear as the gauge-face. has opened 34 modern tramways, all Second-generation logic steering force occurs in a tiny interface area having similar design parameters including A lack of detailed tramway ‘engineering between the coned wheel tread and the the adoption of girder rail known as SEI 35G memory’ in the UK meant that when the time transversely-radiused railhead, known as the or, where appropriate, the closely-related came for the mode’s reinstatement, a team contact patch. The fundamental differences SEI 35GP. The equivalent German standard, of highly qualified railway engineers was between railway and tramway technologies (Ri60-10 or Ri 60) has a very similar railhead recruited to design the first second-generation are best explained by a (necessarily simplistic) profile. In the same period, the eight modern street tramway. Instead of questioning the review of the factors involved in persuading tramway systems in the British Isles [1] (each purpose of numerous infrastructure facets, flanged wheels to follow those parallel rails, built to a unique specification) between them they designed from first principles. both in a straight line and around curves. have adopted four different profiles, including Numerous subsequent technical reports Proportional circumferences of a wheelset both French and German standards, with published by railway-oriented engineers comprising an axle and pair of inflexibly some networks using more than one. stressed that girder rail integral ‘keeps’ should connected wheels with coned treads varies Confined street layouts demand severe play no part in vehicle guidance, their only with any offset from the track centre, the curve radii and hence involve inescapable purpose being on paved tracks to maintain a sideways shift altering the relative distance constrained-curving. In such circumstances, clear flangeway. It is difficult to understand each wheel traverses per revolution. That competent track designs match wheel-flange why railway engineers seem so unaware of introduces ‘hunting’ – a minute self-righting profiles with gauge-faces and checks. If the constrained-curving, or fail to grasp the zigzag motion about the neutral position – wheel-flange properly aligns with the groove lateral forces involved in negotiating the which in normal conditions on tangent track sides of the girder rail (grooved rail) then severe curves inherent in urban systems. is insufficient to involve flange-root contact all four wheels of the trucks or bogies share A knowledge of high-speed or suburban with the corners, and generally lateral thrust, the inside faces of diagonally railway track geometry does not necessarily flanges take no part in keeping vehicles on opposite wheels assisting in constraining mean that the engineer has sufficient the rails. The result is a vehicle that rolls yaw. In effect, it spreads the turning force proficiency to design an urban tramway. along the track with a comfortable, flowing between four thrust faces, collectively movement. When approaching critical speed reducing wear on individual surfaces. Wheel/rail technology this predictable controlled hunting can evolve An additional benefit is that the inner For railed vehicles rounding a bend, into more violent oscillations, constrained leading wheel-flange will deter its opposite dynamic behaviour modifies a combination only by flange contact with the gauge-face, number from climbing out of its groove. of centrifugal and tread steering forces which suspensions of high-speed vehicles To some extent, the high-rail integral check determined by speed, track radius, track control with complex stiffening and damping. guides the trailing axle away from centre, cant and vehicle wheelbase. Forces opposing This hunting effect can pose significant forcing the wheelsets to align as closely as movement include air resistance, bearing problems with four-wheel trucks on tramcars possible to the track. This eases the attack angle friction and rolling resistance. or four-wheel railway vehicles. British Rail and reduces stress on both the leading outer Railway permanent way engineers state spent a lot of time and effort seeking to wheel-flange and the high-rail gauge-face. that vehicle primary performance and improve the high-speed ride of four-wheel

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 275 Wheel/rail interface

vehicles, with limited success. The much- maligned Class 14X Pacer trains use a bus body mounted on a modification of the existing freight vehicle underframe (HSFV1), with poor curving performance – as many disgruntled commuters will still attest. Tramcar speeds are modest and rarely induce severe hunting, particularly once single-truck vehicles with long cantilevers ceased to be common, however the problem has arisen again with some of the modern articulated designs, with resulting constraints on operating speeds – particularly on city centre curves. On curved track, the contact patch on the outside wheel shifts laterally towards its larger radius and the inside wheel towards the smaller radius, balance depending upon curvature severity. The majority of railway tracks have sufficiently large radii to enable a combination of wheel coning and super- elevation to mitigate the differences in rail lengths. One of the effects of super-elevation (or cant) is that it counters centrifugal force A Class 142 Pacer DMU seen leaving Shaw and Crompton railway station on 16 September 2008, destined for Manchester Victoria via Oldham. Mikey via Flickr that would otherwise thrust the outer flange against the gauge corner, allowing trains to but the generation of creep forces (micro- Simple calculation will also show that on the negotiate a bend without flange contact. creep) prevents flange contact. tight curves of a street tramway the different This is known as free-curving. (Figure 1) The trailing axle attempts to align itself rail lengths of the inner and outer rail cannot Centrifugal force thrusts the moving mass radially, which further skews the leading axle be compensated for by conicity and flange- towards the outside of the curve, whilst to present a greater positive attack angle with root running, resulting in slip-skip of the the raised high-rail opposes this lateral the rail, although the frame constrains the wheels and corrugation of the track [2]. acceleration with gravity to produce balance axles from twisting and longitudinal forces With unchecked rail, the only force at a defined line speed. Equilibrium depends drive the misaligned wheelset around curves available to increase direction change is upon the relationship between cant angle, with the truck moderately skewed outwards reaction between the misaligned leading curve radius and velocity, too slow resulting at the leading end (Figure 3). Around outer flange and the gauge-corner of the high in cant excess – when gravity causes an tighter curves, increasing attack angles rail, that additional stress perhaps becoming inward force or cant deficiency. render creep forces insignificant and by sufficient for the wheel to literally climb out forcing the outer wheel onto its flange-root of engagement with the gauge face of the The physics of cornering radius, substantially amplifies the relative outer rail and a derailment ensues. To prevent A truck does not sit squarely on curved track. circumferential difference of the two wheels. derailment it is then necessary to install an Each wheel is misaligned from the track It is important to understand that free- additional rail, a check rail, alongside the low centre-line, the outside wheel of the leading curving applies only on moderate curves. rail to transmit a percentage of lateral thrust axle presenting a positive angle with the At higher speeds or on tightly curved track via the low-wheel flange-back. rail and its inside wheel a negative angle. we enter the realms of constrained-curving, The trailing axle does the reverse. (Figure 2) where a higher turning force invokes Railway vs. tramway On gentle curves associated with mainline friction between flange and rail. As curves The minimum free-curve radius is the point railways, tread conicity laterally shifts the become tighter the situation is exacerbated at which railway and tramway dynamics rolling radius of the leading axle to match the and in addition to hard flange contact, the become separate technologies. Consider the linear difference in rail length. This slightly difference in length between high and low rolling radius difference between the two rails increases the attack angle of the front wheel rails becomes too great to accommodate. forming a 90° standard-gauge curve: heavy

276 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org rail systems measure radii in kilometres, a “A knowledge of high-speed or suburban railway track severe mainline 1km (0.6-mile) curve having a mere 0.13% discrepancy, whilst meandering geometry does not necessarily mean that an engineer branch lines are rarely less than 400/500m radius, again a minor variance in the order has sufficient proficiency to design an urban tramway.” of 0.25%. Coning and superelevation accommodate those differences. By contrast, first generation tramway engineers strove to deal with minimum radii going down to 35ft/12m or less when shoehorning their tracks around street corners. The resulting length variance, about 12%, made friction between wheel and rail an inescapable burden. [3] Harsh attack angles associated with tramway curves render creep 50mm forces insignificant and directional change relies totally upon lateral thrust through wheel-flanges, which suffer friction far beyond anything most railway engineers have to consider. Most second-generation tramways have 20m radius curves where the variation is a still significant, 7%[4], far in excess of anything wheel coning can accommodate. To compensate, the outer wheel endeavours to make the inner wheel revolve more rapidly than the ideal and if successful, the consequence is positive scuff on the low rail. Less likely, the inner wheel tries to make the outer wheel turn slower, success resulting in negative scuff on the high rail. Either of these occurrences will impose twist that increases friction between high gauge-face and flange of the outer leading wheel and attempts to enlarge an already severe attack angle, the additional stress heightening the likelihood of wheel climb and scuffing will result in wheel wear and rail corrugation. Yet although corrugation forms for various reasons, it is not inevitable. Applying full steering force only through friction between the high-rail gauge-face and leading offside wheel-flange is to ‘design-in’ excessive wear and increase derailment potential, which tramway engineers alleviate by using a sacrificial check.

Grooved rail history During the horse-drawn era, groove profiles had a wide slot and a guard too oblique to offer guidance, which was of relatively little importance since around curves horses hauling those trams automatically applied the necessary lateral force through their traces. After the introduction of integral power units in the form of steam trams, Legrand reinvented and patented a girder rail, this time with a guard having a near vertical inner face. The inference is obvious; his redesigned guard allowed both sides of wheel-flanges to share lateral thrust. It is interesting to note that a few tramways, in the UK including those in Hull and Doncaster, adopted a centre-grooved rail with the flange shaped so that both sides of it provided lateral ABOUT THE AUTHOR FOOTNOTES guidance and offered a smooth ride across An electrical engineer by training, Bob Hall 1. Birmingham, Blackpool, Dublin, Edinburgh, mechanical (fishplated) rail joints. has been fascinated by the subject of tramway London, Manchester, Nottingham and Sheffield. In the UK at the beginning of the 20th infrastructure for more than 70 years. 2. Article on noise and vibration – TAUT 928 Century, tramway electrification led to the He worked in the Advanced Projects 3. The 5ft 3in (1600mm) gauge Dublin introduction of two complementary rail Department of Rolls-Royce in Derby and when network had one 28ft (8.5m) radius curve, profiles, one each for tangent and curves, the firm became insolvent in 1971 he joined which must have subjected all components the latter checks having additional thickness the at Crich (UK), to severe stress. where differences in became clear. 4. One curve in Nottingham is 18m, many accommodating similar wear to that on the He has travelled extensively and enjoyed central European cities have 16-17m radii; gauge face. More than a century later, why discussing the subject with tramway engineers Toronto specified a requirement for its new do contemporary British engineers reject of numerous nationalities. fleet to be able to negotiate 12m curve radii. that expertise?

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 277 Advertorial EMC MANAGEMENT FOR MODERN TRAMWAYS LRT systems’ DC traction power networks can pose a challenge to achieving compatibility with specialist equipment used in hospitals and universities. Ken Webb, Technical Director at Mott MacDonald, explores the issues.

ntroducing DC electrified tramways into city centres means existing establishments may be exposed to a number of issues relating to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), whichI include: Stray DC, Radio Frequency Interference (RFI), DC and quasi-static magnetic fields. Stray DC is the description for traction current that returns to the substation via unintended paths. If not controlled, this current may flow back to the substation via the track ballast, ground and any buried metallic structures or services. Once these third parties have been from materials which attenuate magnetic Over a prolonged period, corrosion may identified, it is necessary to obtain specific field variations), or active systems, where result, ultimately leading to failure of the susceptibility information about their the external fields are detected by the active structure. This is a well understood problem equipment – for example, the limits on cancellation system and opposing fields are and is managed through the development tolerable variation in DC and quasi-static generated to counteract them. and implementation of a stray current magnetic fields over a specified period of Relocate affected equipment: If all other management plan. time for each item of equipment. This options are unviable or not cost-effective, RFI from trams is controlled by applying becomes the baseline specification. then relocation of sensitive equipment to good EMC engineering practice through If possible, it is useful to obtain magnetic alternative locations may be considered. design and build. Compliance with railway field emissions data from similar tram/traction Reduce the traction current demand: EMC harmonised standards is demonstrated systems by taking measurements along the The magnitude of the magnetic field by a programme of emissions testing in route under various loading conditions. disturbance is proportional to the variation accordance with BS EN 50121-3-1. The This data can be used in a model of the in traction current and hence related to the immunity of trams to external sources of traction system to predict the magnetic magnitude of this current. Current limiting RFI is controlled in the same way but with field under various load conditions and via automatic means or an operational testing of onboard electrical equipment in design options. procedure, for example a speed limit, may accordance with BS EN 50121-3-2. With the limits agreed, options for the be considered to mitigate a specific case. However, the third of the issues listed design are then reviewed and this can free traction: Modern above, DC and quasi-static magnetic fields, typically involve the following: onboard energy storage systems can enable often requires innovative design solutions. Reroute the tram alignment: The trams and LRVs to run for short distances Although the EMC Directive 2004/108/ amplitude of the DC and quasi-static without contact with the overhead line, EC covers all EMC phenomena regardless magnetic fields reduce with distance. This in possibly providing a viable solution. of frequency range, the supporting EMC effect separates the source of the interference However, the additional vehicle cost and harmonised railway standards (BS EN 50121 (the tram/traction power system) from complexity may be prohibitive and this series) do not specify limits for DC and quasi- the sensitive equipment. This may not be will not entirely eliminate electromagnetic static magnetic field emissions. This presents practical for all schemes. emissions, so care would be required to a problem as compliance with the Directive Redesign of conductor configuration: ensure that the requirements were met. (and the implementing UK legislation) is a The large loop formed by the overhead In our experience, all problems arising legal requirement. However, with no emission contact wire and the running rails from the introduction of light rail networks limits specified in the harmonised standards, produces a correspondingly large magnetic can be resolved through one or more of how do we demonstrate compliance? field. Reducing the size of this loop can these solutions. However, as each system For DC and quasi-static magnetic fields, significantly reduce the amplitude of the must be dealt with on a case by case basis, each tram system is considered on a case by magnetic fields. One way of achieving early engagement between the design team, case basis. Third parties such as hospitals, this is to run parallel feeders alongside or the client and those likely to be affected by universities and research laboratories which underneath the running rails. This option, electromagnetic interference is crucial. may use equipment susceptible to sudden together with other modifications to the variations in the background DC magnetic traction power system, might be sufficient to field need to be identified. During the ensure electromagnetic compatibility. CONTACT INFO planning process, engagement with these Provide shielding: Shielding the sensitive local stakeholders is crucial and some may equipment may be feasible, either using E: [email protected] raise formal objections on the basis that it passive systems (i.e. placing the sensitive W: www.mottmac.com could affect the operation of their equipment. equipment in enclosures which are built

278 / JULY 2015 www.tramnews.net . www.Irta.org Orléans

Since 2012, two tramlines with openings SYSTEMS separated by 12 years Orléans have provided the main structure for the historic FACTFILE city’s public transport FRANCE network. Neil Pulling No. Orléans, reports from the 94 France Loiret capital.

Preserved by the wire-free installation, the view of Rue Jeanne d’Arc and Sainte Croix cathedral.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 279 Orléans

THE FLEET

There are 22 Alstom Citadis 301 (nos. 39-60) and 21 Citadis 302 (61-81), the numbering following the original tramway’s system. The 22 communes provided names for the original fleet, displayed on the tram’s short centre section. Aside from different cab profiles and APS capability there are other significant differences between the types, although LEFT: Both line both were assembled at Aytré, La Rochelle. Slightly narrower at projects were 2.32m, the 30m long, three-section 301 (capacity 136 standing, used to upgrade 40 seated) has raised floors over the end bogies although all the surroundings: doors give level platform entry. The 2.4m-wide five-section 302, between Antigna two metres longer, is low-floor throughout. It has a different seat and Gare d’Orléans. configuration and capacity (149 standing, 54 seated) and a more comprehensive passenger information system. BELOW: Most The two types have different internal colourschemes and road traffic takes the externally the 302 trams also feature a weave design bordering underpass below the lower edge of the main gold livery. the tramway outside the main station.

“Orléans was comparatively early in the French tramway revival. Construction began in summer 1998, leading to a complete opening in November 2000.”

ABOVE: Line A platforms at De Gaulle with line B tracks in the foreground. ABOVE: Citadis 301 59 eases past peak-time traffic on Pont George V.

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rom Nantes to St Etienne, tramways feature in several cities along the Loire and its tributaries. Orléans was comparatively early Famongst the systems of the French tramway revival. Construction began in summer 1998 leading to a complete opening in November 2000 of what was then France’s longest single line at 18km (11.3 miles). The city had an electrified tramway from 1899 until 1938, its coverage partially replicated by today’s system, which became a two-line operation on 29 June 2012. Although with many direction changes en route, the lines run overall north-to-south for the earlier, now line A, with line B on an east-west axis. Orléans is in the Loiret department and is capital of the Centre-Val de Loire region. The authority for the Orléans Agglomeration of 22 communes identified 273 878 inhabitants for January 2014, with 114 185 in Orléans commune. The stylised collective identity l’AgglO appears across public transport along with the brand TAO (transports de l’agglomération orléanaise). Replacing Veolia Transdev, restructuring the network and introducing a new identity, the present operator is Keolis about 1.7km (approx. 1.05 miles) apart TOP LEFT: Martroi. This pedestrianised main Orléans Val de Loire. The current and both are on line A. East-bound Citadis square is dominated by a Joan of Arc seven-year operating contract began The city’s principal public transport 302 74 passes the equestrian statue, with the tramline in January 2012. Its corporate logo has hub, the rebuilt Gare d’Orléans line B depot on closely fringed by pavement cafes. Boulevard Marie a small presence on the overall gold terminus is at the northern edge of The stop on the narrow Rue Royale Stuart. ‘Sable de Loire’ tram livery and the the city centre. In a gloomy ground uses some road as the side platforms white of the TAO buses which operate level setting, the covered tramstop TOP RIGHT: accessed from arcades, with other 33 lines. In the usual French manner, and adjacent bus terminus are The regional traffic being halted by barriers there are multiple connections with incorporated near the concealed hospital is the according to a tram’s presence. buses and trams. station frontage dominated by the backdrop for By far the greater part of line A lies Orléans is about 120km (75 miles) Place d’Arc shopping complex. To arriving tram 48, south of the Loire, which forms a south-west of Paris to which it is give trams and pedestrians a freer soon to set back to distinct boundary for the core area. the nearby line A connected by railway and motorway. transit through this bustling area, Like the old system, line A crosses the depot. It is an attractive place with strong most road traffic is channelled below Loire on the 325m bridge which has historical associations as suggested in a cutting. Les Aubrais station, in ABOVE: had several names including Pont by pavement markers bearing the the northern commune of Fleury- A mid-16th Century Royal and Georges V since being city’s Celtic, Roman and present les-Aubrais, is served by trains also mansion once built in the mid-18th Century. Like names. With much in the centre using the main station and by those serving as the city Gare d’Orléans, the bridge had roads geared to daytrippers and with the bypassing central Orléans on the hall, Hôtel Groslot is reconfigured for the tramway, with capital so accessible, for such a large ‘classic line’ to Tours, the latter now on the APS section. space for the central paired tracks place Orléans nevertheless feels like principally served by TGV Atlantique. leaving just one pavement and a single a dormitory town soon after the Broadly replicating the original lane in each direction for other traffic. shops close. The tramway and buses tramway from Gare d’Orléans along Dispersal and restriction of road traffic feed commuter traffic flows for both the traffic-restricted shopping street in central Orléans included a new Paris and Orléans via the two long Rue de la République, the line curves Loire crossing, Pont de l’Europe, which distance railway stations. These are around the western end of Place du like the tramway also opened in 2000.

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Bustiére Lamballe Jules Verne Gare des Aubrais Line 1

Libération

Coligny Guy-Marie Riobé Droits de l'Homme Clos du Hameau Grand Villiers Gaudier-Brzeska Clos de l'Arche Antigna Line 2 Mozart Verville Eugène Vignat Léon Blum – Mairie Gare d'Orléans Ambert Pont Bordeau République Halmagrand Rol Tanguy Trois Fontaines Madeleine Croix Morin Porte Dunoise Martin Luther King Cathédrale – Hôtel de Ville Beaumonts De Gaulle Pont de l'Europe Royale – Châtelet Georges Pompidou Line 2 Tourelles – Dauphine

Croix Saint-Marceau

Mouillère

NETWORK FACTS Opened: November 2000 Lines: 2 Zénith – Parc des Expositions Distance: 29.3 km (18.3 miles) Stops: 49 Depots: 2 Approx. weekday hours: 04.30-00.30 Line frequency: 6-10 minutes (also Victor Hugo seasonal variations) Gauge: 1435mm Power: 750V dc OLE and ground supply Lorette Fleet: 43 Alstom Citadis Université – City network: TAO Les Aulnaies Parc Floral Université – Operator: Keolis Orléans Val de Loire Château

INFORMATION Hôpital de La Source Université – City network: www.reseau-tao.fr Line 1 L'Indien

Civic information: www.orleans.fr Chèques Postaux and www.agglo-orleans.fr Tourist information: www.tourisme- Bolière orleans.com

“Line A broadly replicates the original tramway, along Rue de la République and curving around the western end of Place du Martroi.”

LEFT: Zénith-Parc des Expositions interchange, with APS-equipped Citadis 65 on the fully overhead supply line A.

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Line B trams cross at Madeleine, a changeover point between overhead and ground power supply.

ABOVE: Tram 59 draws away from Antigna stop in one of Orléans longer established residential areas.

RIGHT: Overhead supply on line A arguably has little adverse visual impact on Place du Martroi.

BELOW: Line A links the two main stations: tram 42 at SNCF Les Aubrais.

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Line A is partly interurban in character in its southern reaches, including almost rural intrusions as near Orléans’ other significant river, the Loiret. There are ballasted track sections and long distances between some stops before the tramway enters the park-like university and research district in La Source, a new town development begun in the 1960s. Line A’s depot is immediately before Hôpital de la Source terminus. Not replicated on line B’s stops are tall posts supporting analogue clocks, now seemingly inactive. At opening, project leader SYSTRA identified the line as directly serving 21% of the agglomeration’s population and 70% of those in education. The previous 50 minutes for end-to-end travel has been increased due to problems identified in early 2014 as premature track ageing. Subject to findings, restorative work may be needed on line A. A turnkey project for Alstom identified during development as CLEO (Construire la ligne Est-Ouest / Build the East-West line) the 11.3km (seven miles) of line B is wholly north of the Loire. Directly serving 20% of the agglomeration’s population, 90% of the track is in dedicated space. Work began in 2008 and incorporated several archaeological excavation sites. Alstom’s automated Appitrack system was used for tracklaying. TAO signs a two-minute walking The second line passes through the connection between line B’s “The main rationale for line B's city centre, crossing line A on Place Halmagrand and A’s Gare d’Orléans, du General de Gaulle. The right- clearly a faster option than changing wire-free section lies immediately angle crossing with a spur for stock at De Gaulle as the two tramlines are to the east of De Gaulle, an transfer near the De Gaulle platforms very close here. They could seemingly illustrates the system’s key technical have been connected here rather than unobstructed vista along Rue distinction: there is overhead line via Rue Jeanne D’Arc. This would have above line A yet none over line B. obviated line B traversing the visually Jeanne D’Arc to Sainte Croix The crossing is on the line B section sensitive areas and thereby avoided using Alstom’s APS system. This expenditure on APS infrastructure cathedral.” is between Eugène Vignat and and trams. Conversely this may have Madeleine, where trams switch caused unacceptably intensive use of uses Orléans’ 302 type. There are ABOVE: between ground and overhead supply. shared tracks. The tramway has also six designated park-and-ride sites Southbound tram The main rationale for the helped maintain the cathedral zone as on each line, ten of them supervised 57 arriving at approximate kilometre of wire-free a calm yet active city showpiece. With and offering combined tickets. Gare d’Orléans on route lies immediately to the east the second line came a new control Of TAO’s 30.6m passenger journeys in 15 April 2015. of De Gaulle, an unobstructed vista centre; this, the main bus depot and 2014, 65% were by tram, 28% on the along Rue Jeanne D’Arc to Sainte Croix line B’s depot are along Boulevard high frequency ‘lignes fortes’ buses cathedral. In keeping with preserving Marie Stuart between Ambert and numbered 1-8 with the remainder on the view, the platforms of Jeanne Gaudier Brzeska stops. the other bus lines. Amongst network D’Arc stop are barely perceptible. The Line A is mainly operated by Citadis changes due by September 2015 is for line turns sharply near the cathedral’s 301 trams, with four newer 302 line A to increase capacity to allow a west front to pass the elegant Hotel models allocated in August five-minute interval. Groslot, once the town hall and of 2010 to meet rising demand. Line B which there are similarly clear views. needs APS capability, therefore only Download maps at www.reseau-tao.fr

ESSENTIAL FACTS Local travel: Maps/schedules are regular users, but single-use ‘paper’ What is there to see? Sainte Croix du Martroi. Orléans is a popular base available from the TAO information tickets are more relevant for visitors. cathedral and Hotel Groslot old for touring Loire chateaux. Near the point near Gare d’Orléans tram Single journey 1 Voyage tickets cost town hall are amongst the historic railway just north of Orléans is a stop or the main office, Agence EUR1.50, while at EUR3.90 Journée structures vying with Joan of Arc long reminder of a mode intended Martroi, 4 rue de la Hallebarde, tickets have day validity, with (‘Maid of Orléans’) links for attention. for high-speed surface travel. just north of De Gaulle stop. Week-end tickets covering Although wide and picturesque, Abandoned by 1977 as the TGV Tickets are sold from here or Saturday and Sunday at the same the Loire nevertheless seems as if format developed, much of the 18km machines on tramway platforms. price. Onboard ticket validation in Orléans’s backyard, with the city (11.2 miles) of elevated beam for the Rechargeable tickets are available for required. looking inward to focus around Place A érotrain (hovertrain) remains.

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ALGERIA Da Vinci terminus of lines 32 SIDI BEL ABBÈS. T he 17.8k m and 55, including a pocket track (11-mile) tramway project is 50% capable of holding four cars, was complete and land acquisition brought into use from 13 May. has been completed. The first Consideration is being given to technical tests with Alstom trams extending metro line 6 by one are expected in March 2016 and station to a 10 000-space car commercial service at the end park at Eurostadion. If built this of 2017. A. Senut would be the first section of metro outside the city boundary. T-2000 ARGENTINA GENT. Delivery of Bombardier BUENOS AIRES. Tenders are Flexity 6351-60 was completed being invited to build the first on 27 April. T-2000 stage of metro line F from Plaza Callao to Santa Fe (8.6km/ BRAZIL 5.3 miles). IRJ RIO DE JANEIRO. The 1100mm- gauge 6km (3.7-mile) Santa Teresa AUSTRALIA tramway, closed since an August BROADBEACH – SOUTHPORT. 2011 accident, started test running The Gold Coast light rail line in March using the first of a batch One of the new heritage trams on test in Rio de Janeiro. D. Phillips carried its five millionth passenger of 14 new crossbench open- on 6 May, less than a year after sided trams supplied by TTrans. CHINA FRANCE the opening on 20 July 2014. Problems were encountered due DALIAN. The first part of GRENOBLE. The test phase of Current usage is about 17 800 to interaction between newly- metro line 2 was opened for the 4.8km (three-mile) extension passengers/day. Gold Coast Bulletin laid cobblestones and the car’s free trial operation on 30 April. of tramline E from St-Martin-le- MELBOURNE. The new state wheelsets. The area the tramway The 20.6km (12.8-mile) line Vinoux to Fontanil-Cornillon budget includes AUD1.3bn serves has also been hit by recent connects Haizhiyun in the started on 19 May. It is hoped to (EUR900m) for 37 metro trains, outbreaks of gang warfare, with a eastern suburbs with Dalian start passenger service on 13 July. AUD274m (EUR191m) for 20 dozen people killed. CityMetric International Airport at Jichang in A. Senut new trams, AUD257m (EUR179m) SANTOS. Tram testing between the north-west, and is electrified at MARSEILLE. T he 1. 2 k m for new V/Line railway carriages Mascarenhas de Moraes and João 1500V dc overhead. CNR Dalian (0.7-mile) tramway extension and AUD90m (EUR62.6m) Ribeiro saw the new tramway has supplied 20 six-car trains. along rue de Rome to Place for five X’Trapolis trains for carry its first passengers on There will be interchange in the Castellane (metro interchange) commuter rail services. A ten- 27 April. When the 11km city centre with north-south opened on 30 May and is served year plan would see an additional (6.8-mile) line opens (possibly line 1, under construction for by route 3. Further extension of 80 new trams by 2021, bringing in December) it will be operated completion later this year. RGI line 3 has been approved: in 2020 the total E class from Bombardier by 22 Vossloh Tramlink cars, HOHHOT. The capital of Inner the 2.5km (1.6-mile) extension to 150. The Age the final 19 of which are being Mongolia is to get a two-line from Castellane to Dromel SYDNEY. Construction work on assembled in Brazil by TTrans. RGI 51.4km (31.9-mile) metro by 2020, should open, followed in 2021 the 12km (7.5-mile) Circular Quay with plans approved by China’s by the 1.8km (1.1-mile) route – Randwick/Kingsford tramline State Council on 15 April. IRJ from Arenc to Capitaine Greze. will start in George St on 23 SOFIA. Metro line 1 was extended SHENYANG. S e v e n t y p e In 2022 1.9km (1.2 miles) from October. The line is due to be ready 2.8km (1.7 miles) south from 27T trams are being built by Dromel to La Gaye will follow. for testing in June 2018 using 30 Mladost 1 to Business Park Sofia CSR Qingdao Sifang, based A. Senut Alstom Citadis X05 cars. Following on 8 May. urbanrail.net on the Skoda 15T ForCity design. MONTPELLIER. The first rails the delivery of CAF trams 2118- for the city centre loop of tramline 23, tenders were invited for the CANADA COLOMBIA 4 were laid in Blvd Henri VI on purchase of seven withdrawn EDMONTON. E T S st a r te d MEDELLIN. O p e n i n g o f 21 May. Completion is planned 29m low-floor Variotram cars testing of the new signalling the 4.3km (2.7-mile) Translohr for the second quarter of 2016. dating from 1996. A. Bailey system on the Capital Line in 2 Tranvia de Ayacucho has been A. Senut May. This is a 3.3km (2-mile) line announced for 30 September.S B from Churchill in the city centre GERMANY WIEN (Vienna). Delivery of north-west to NAIT, including BERLIN. The 22 tram routes ULF trams had reached 121 by a subway from Churchill to LIBEREC. Service on the rebuilt cover 295.7km (183.7 miles) and the end of April. However recent MacEwan, expected to carry metre-gauge line between are worked by a fleet of 119 Tatra deliveries have not yet entered 13 200 passengers/day. Passenger Fungerova and Vratislavice KT4D and 150 low-floor trams. service due to difficulties with service should start by the end of resumed as planned on 15 The commercial speed achieved the authorising authorities the year, about nine months late. April. Re-opening all the way to is 19.3km/h (12mph) (the average relating to specification changes. R. Glucksman Jablonec is planned for the end stop distance is 500m). Schalke of Gelsenkirchen has TORONTO. The latest Bombardier of June. BS The strikes by German delivered battery locomotive low-floor tram to enter service train drivers in April and May 6924 for use on the U-Bahn. was 4407 in mid-May. The ECUADOR that affected the S-Bahn saw Withdrawn are E1 4750/2, c3 Thunder Bay factory is reported CUENCA. The first Alstom passengers traveling on BVG trailers 1228/35/47/73 and c4 to be having difficulties with Citadis low-floor tram for services increase by up to 60%. trailers 1334/40/68. parts supplied by Bombardier’s the new system was to be Tatra trams joining the museum Mexican plant. The 204-car order delivered in June after leaving fleet are KT4D 7011/2 and T6A2 AZERBAIJAN is now due to be completed by the the factory in La Rochelle, France, 5117/41. They were due to join BAKU. Three new five-car metro end of 2019. on 11 May. Alstom is supplying the parade marking 150 years of trains have been delivered by From 7 June the 41 Sunday-only 14 100% low-floor trams featuring tramways on 28 June. Metrovagonmash/Alstom. tram stops that were established its APS surface current collection The senate has released EUR58m in the 1920s to reduce walking system for use in the historic city to permit the purchase of 11 more distances to churches were centre. Commercial service on the IK trains; these will be adapted BRUXELLES/BRUSSEL. removed; most were within 100m 10km (6.2-mile) line will start in for service on large profile lines. The new tramway layout at of regular stops. D. Drum the first half of 2016. RGI The north-south S-Bahn tunnel

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operation on route 1 with Ganz- While the overall scheme to Hunslet six-axle trams 500-10. BS redevelop the whole Promenade may take five years to complete, INDIA it has been indicated that the BENGALURU (Bangalore). The horse tramway would only close metro Green line was extended for one year. Critics have asked north by 3.4km (2.1 miles) from why the tramway could not Peenya Industry to Nagasandra continue on its present alignment on 1 May. urbanrail.net while the new alignment is DELHI. The New Okhla Industrial constructed, thereby avoiding a Development Authority (NOIDA) break in summer season operation. for the capital region is developing A campaign has been organised plans for a three-route tramway on social media to object to the network with a 12km (7.5-mile) relocation of the tramway. starter line planned. This will be The revised proposals have a feeder to the metro. Times of India included many of the comments KOLKATA. Air-conditioned bogie made to a previous consultation, tram 530 is usually positioned but the GBP21m (EUR29m) at Esplanade terminus as a scheme has again been subject restaurant tram. India Today to a public consultation with decisions being made after The final stage of testing of the new Marseille tramline in rue de Rome on 21 May. IRAN further comments are received Y. Allain SHIRAZ. Shahed station on and after consideration by the was re-opened on 4 May on threatened by a cut in State grants metro line 1 was opened on 5 May. Borough Council, Tynwald completion of renovation work. BS from 75% to 50%. BS Unlike other stations on the line, it members and other key BOCHUM-GELSENKIRCHEN. KARLSRUHE. Regular passenger is in a shallow open section rather stakeholders. Tenders have been invited for service with the classic DWM/ than a tunnel. urbanrail.net The horse tram 2015 summer 32 30.4m low-floor trams (with Waggon Union articulated trams season began on 11 May and trams an option for a further eight) for came to an end on 23 May; 74 were IRELAND will operate until 13 September delivery starting in 2016, and delivered between 1959 and 1978, DUBLIN. A government decision (with a later journey operated for six high-floor Stadtbahn cars for but by the end less than ten were is still awaited on the six options the Light Rail Transit Association delivery by 2022. in use on half of route 5 – 1975 put forward for transport AGM weekend on the Isle of Man). The new track scrubbing car, former AVG car 124 is still used solutions in the Swords and IoM RAILWAYS. Isle of Man rebuilt from Stadtbahn-M 340, is on school journeys. BS Dublin Airport area. Local media Railways has received three in service as 678. BS KREFELD. The new tram station reports are still suggesting that the ‘Red Wheel plaques’ from The BREMEN. With tram 3102 at Ostwall/Rheinstrasse will not be option of replacing a Metro North Transport Trust, which recently suffering frontal damage and 3109 completed until late July due to an option costing EUR3bn with a presented what are regarded damage at the rear, a new 3102 has overrun on work to install a glass Luas extension costing EUR330m as the equivalent of blue been created from the rear portion roof; however trams started using will be favoured by Transport heritage plaques. One each has of the former and the front portion the relaid tracks from 18 April. BS Minister Paschal Donohoe. been installed at Douglas of the latter. The damaged sections MAGDEBURG. Work on 980m With an improved economy, Station, Derby Castle Station on are in the workshop for repair. BS of new tramway in Wiener Strasse previously stalled development the and DUISBURG. A total of 11 trams started on 7 April. The EUR19.3m plans are being resurrected that at Station in honour of have been sent to seven different project is due for completion in will have an effect on completed the Snaefell line. companies for urgent attention autumn 2016. BS Luas extensions that presently do to corrosion damage. Many NÜRNBERG. The award of the not meet the potential expected of ISRAEL workings on lines 901 and 903 are new S-Bahn contract to National them when originally proposed. TEL AVIV. The ILS2.9bn bus-operated in the interim. BS Express was overturned on Cherrywood suburb is expected to (EUR0.7bn) contract for the DÜSSELDORF. Invited guests 28 April following an appeal by double in size to a population of 5km (3.1-mile) Red line light rail were taken for a ride through the DB Regio. BS over 20 000 with the construction subway has been awarded to a new Wehrhahn tram subway on SCHWERIN. With the start of of 3800 new homes, a new town consortium of Shikun u’Binui 16 April. Regular test operation work on replacing the railway centre, schools and leisure Holdings and China Railway started in May. bridge in Wittenburger Strasse facilities. Construction could start Tunnel Group. Globes The order with Bombardier from 16 March, tramline 2 is as early as autumn. for new Stadtbahn cars has been running over temporary single ITALY fixed at 42, with an option for track in Franz-Mehring-Str for ISLE OF MAN CAGLIARI. The 950mm-gauge 16 more. BS some months. BS DOUGLAS. Concerns have been rail line to Settimo San Pietro is FRANKFURT/ODER. Tenders STUTTGART. Celebrations lodged to the revised proposals being upgraded and electrified to have been invited for 13 28m 60% to mark 120 years of tramway for the revamping of Douglas permit tramline 1 to be extended. low-floor trams (with an option operation will be seen on 18- Promenade, which includes the Since diesel trains will still run for a further two). Delivery is 19 July by the operation of relocation of the horse tramway over this line to Mandas and Isili, required to start in 2016. BS 1904 museum tram 222 on the from the highway to a shared space this will become the first tram- HANNOVER. With the new Canstatt loop. BS walkway largely on the seaward train operation in Italy. OR Stadtbahn cars entering service, ULM. The EUR32m order for 12 side of the Promenade. The new FIRENZE. Track lay ing for first series trams 6124/58/92 were Siemens 31m Avenio five-section line would be single track (double tramline 2 started at the end withdrawn in April. BS aluminium-bodied 100% low- at terminals and passing places) of April in the Novoli district. HEIDELBERG. Work never floor trams (with an option for six commencing almost opposite The airport line should open started on the so-called more) for new 10.5km (6.5-mile) Victoria Street short of its present in 2017, and will be worked by Campusbahn tramway through tramline 2 was signed on 22 May. terminus at Victoria Pier. It would 29 AnsaldoBreda Sirio trams Neuenheimer Feld as a legal The first will arrive from the Wien then follow a walkway between under an option in the 2005 challenge found the planning factory in summer 2017 and line 2 the sunken gardens and the contract for line 1. RGI process had been defective. The will open in spring 2018. shoreline, crossing over the GENOVA – CASELLA (FGC). Research Institute is maintaining Promenade on the Derby Castle Work to stabilise the line is taking its opposition due to fears of HUNGARY side of Summer Hill and following longer than expected and it is electromagnetic interference. DEBRECEN. CAF trams 511-28 its existing route to the Strathallan unlikely to re-open until at least The depot rebuild is also are used on route 2, and in mixed terminus and tram depot. December. EA

286 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org ROMA. Testing on the 5.4km between May and September. capacity to be increased to a and the light rail tram service was (3.4-mile) extension of metro Passenger service will start train every two minutes, and split into two sections – Fleetwood line C from Parco di Centocelle in 2016. BS provide for interchange with to North Pier and Manchester to Lodi started on 30 April. WROCLAW. Six new Moderus future line m3. tram Square to Starr Gate – with the Commercial service is planned Beta trams have been ordered NYON – ST CERGUE (NStCM). southern section augmented by for the first half of July. A further from Modertrans for PLN23m Further to last month’s news, the the operation of B-fleet double extension to San Giovanni, (EUR5.6m), with an option for new Stadler Diamant Abe4/8 sets deckers. On each day services providing interchange with 16 more. Modertrans was the are each numbered in pairs, so the returned to normal between 14.00 line A, is expected to open at the only bidder. Still to be delivered initial delivery is 4-01/2-407/8. and 15.00. end of 2015. RGI this year are eight Pesa Twist cars. There is an option for seven more CAMBRIDGE. Stagecoach Group The trams will be used on a new (409/10-421/2). OR has seen a 13.9% reduction in KAZAKHSTAN line to Novy Dwor residential ST GALLEN. The project to link passengers joining at park-and- PAVLODAR. The European area in the western suburbs, due the Trognerbahn and Appenzeller ride sites following the imposition Bank for Reconstruction & to open in 2019. DS Bahn across St Gallen has been of parking charges on the busway. Development is providing a delayed for financial and planning A weekly bus pass costs GBP24.50 EUR10m loan to support tramway reasons and will not be completed (EUR34) to which a GBP5 (EUR7) infrastructure modernisation on LISBOA. Trams in green livery until the end of 2018. When the weekly parking charge now has to the 86km (53-mile) network and for the Castle Hill Tour are new service starts, Be4/8 31-5 will be added. the purchase of 25 new trams. RGI 713/7/22/35/41/4/5. The Chiado be retained rather than sold, so the EBBW VALE. The new Ebbw tram tour that started on 4 June order for new Tango LRVs will be for Vale Town station opened on uses part of suspended Campolide seven rather than 12. tram 17 May as part of a GBP11.5m AMSTERDAM. The first tramline 24 between Camoes ZÜRICH. All the finance is now (EUR16m) Welsh Government- non-powered test run with a and the crossover at Principe in place for the Limmattalbahn funded project. The station is on metro train (76) on the north- Real. The fare is EUR6. Residents project linking Altstetten the Ebbw Vale to Cardiff line and south line (9.8km/six-mile protested that they wanted the and Schlieren by 2019. The is served by an hourly service. Buikslotermeerplein – Zuid/WTC) regular public service reinstated.BS second phase from Schlieren to The existing railway has been took place on 21 April. The line is Killwangen-Spreitenbach should extended northwards from Ebbw not due to carry passengers until follow by 2022, but opponents Vale Parkway through the former October 2017. IRJ ARAD. All six Astra Imperio low- are trying to force a referendum. steelworks to Ebbw Vale Town. DEN HAAG. The extension floor trams are now in service, An additional Cobra low-floor tram However, the line is at a lower of tramline 19 to TU will numbered 1401-3 and 1504-6. BS in Glattal livery is 3080. tram level than the town centre and not happen until 2019 due Blaenau Gwent Council has to difficulty in financing the SAUDI ARABIA TAIWAN awarded a GBP2.3m (EUR3.2m) reconstruction of Sebastiaansbrug RIYADH. Tunnelling for the first KAOHSIUNG. It is hoped to start contract for construction of a cable- along the route. OR 12.9km (eight miles) of metro trial public service on the first operated hillside ‘mechanical started on 30 April, with 2018 stage of the new tramway, between link’, which has a single vehicle NEW ZEALAND the target date for completion. Six Lizihnei and the Exhibition with capacity for up to 22 AUCKLAND. All commuter lines totalling 176km (109 miles) Centre, in August using nine CAF passengers. The link overcomes rail services have been operated are planned. GRN trams. Service would be extended a 23m height difference between by EMUs since 16 May, with north to Hamaxing in October. IRJ its upper and lower stations. the Swanson the last to be The facility had been expected electrified. CAF has delivered NORRKÖPING. The three M98 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES to open in March in advance of 57 three-car sets. RGI low-floor articulated trams 22- DUBAI. The new tramway carried the railway extension but has 24 (ex-München) have been 944 000 passengers in the first been delayed due to the need to withdrawn. One may return to three months of 2015, with Dubai complete staff training, and the TRONDHEIM. The first of Germany as a museum piece.MfSS Marina the busiest station. testing and commissioning to the articulated trams to be Emirates 24/7 obtain the required certification. withdrawn is 92, due to corrosion EDINBURGH. B o a r d damage. Stored 99 will be used to AIGLE (TPC). Withdrawn appointments at Transport for replace it. BS BDeh2/4 202/3 have been BLACKPOOL. Work to facilitate Edinburgh operators Edinburgh scrapped; 201 survives, but has the extension from North Pier Tram and Lothian Buses have PANAMA not turned a wheel for several to Blackpool North station been announced with a view to PANAMA CITY. A consortium years. EA continues, and Blackpool bringing management of the two of FCC and Odebrecht has been BASEL (BLT). Schindler has Transport is investigating the organisations closer together. named as preferred bidder for started delivery of Be6/10 Tango possibility of increasing the light Charles Monheim, who has the USD1.86bn 21km (13-mile) trams 171-189. They will replace rail fleet by two vehicles if funding held senior roles at Transport metro line 2 contract. This is the Be4/6 101-15, destined for can be obtained. for London and New York City’s consortium that built Line 1; 21 Beograd. EA A new group has launched an Metropolitan Transit Authority, five-car trains will be required. BIEL/BIENNE. The proposed online petition to extend tram will lead the board of Edinburgh El Ingenio station on Line 1 was Regiotram project was formally services from Squires Gate to Trams. He will be joined by opened on 8 May. RGI abandoned on 25 March. EA Lytham station. It follows the Charlene Wallace, a business GENEVE. Active tramway award last year of an EU grant of executive with experience in PAKISTAN extension plans include line 15 GBP160 000 (EUR222 000) for a the rail and air travel sectors, KARACHI. A n 1 8 . 4 k m from Palettes to St-Julien (2021), joint project between Lancashire and Andy Neal, former Chief (11.4-mile) tramline is proposed line 15 from Nations to Aeroport County Council and Sintropher Executive of city centre business to be constructed by Chinese (2023) and line 18 to St-Genis- to investigate extending the line district Essential Edinburgh. interests under a USD1.2bn Pouilly (2019). tram by using the existing South Fylde Non-executive directors have also project drawn up by a joint LAUSANNE. Three more rubber- railway line. It is expected that the been appointed to Edinburgh committee. The project would be tyred metro trains are to be results of the study will be released Tram for the first time. 60% financed by a 13-year loan supplied by Alstom for line m2, in early autumn. Jim McFarlane becomes Chair from Sinosure and completion which carried 28m passengers The summer enhanced tram of the Lothian Buses Board, and could be achieved by 2018. in 2014. The new stock will service will start on 28 June and he and Mr Monheim will also arrive in spring 2017. It is planned two trams will become adverts for sit as non-executive Directors at POLAND to build new tunnels between Eviivo, an online booking agency. Transport for Edinburgh. OLSZTYN. The 15 Solaris Tramino Flon and Gare CFF, eliminating In early May the Promenade was Cycles were allowed on trams trams were due for delivery the single-track section to permit closed for filming for three days during off-peak hours for an

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 287 Worldwide Review

experimental period in May with a time of grant cuts by central WIRRAL. Blackpool Brush car JACKSONVILLE, FL. A a view to making the practice government. The levy goes 626, acquired by USD349 000 study has been permanent if feedback proved towards tram and other public for possible use on an extended approved to look at extensions satisfactory. Only two cycles were transport enhancements. , has been sold to the Skyway automated allowed per tram and disabled Testing of trams took place on to developer Peel Holdings; peoplemover, which carries only passengers had precedence, with the full extent of the new Peel still intends to undertake a 82 000 passengers/year. E. B. Havens the conductor’s decisions final. extensions to Chilwell and Wilford major development of the Wirral LAS VEGAS, NV. With the LONDON (TRAMLINK). from mid-May. No date has yet dockside () area. number of annual visitors Construction of an additional been set for opening the extension Car 626 has been stored indoors expected to increase by 10m/ loop in central Croydon is closer as some stops still require at Pacific Road but the remaining year by 2025, the Regional to fruition after the public chose additional work to complete vehicles acquired by Merseytravel Transportation Commission has one of the options put forward, paving and infrastructure. have been stored in the open. They unveiled an investment plan which has been further developed Extension of the Phoenix Park have also been offered for sale. that includes a proposal for a by TfL. The proposed Dingwall line to Kimberley, the subject of a subway/surface light rail line Road loop would see trams routed current GBP20 000 (EUR28 000) USA along The Strip within ten years, anti-clockwise via Dingwall Road feasibility study, hangs in the BALTIMORE, MD. Three metro probably with a connection to and Lansdowne Road where a new balance following a change of stations (Mondawmin, Upton McCarran International Airport. stop would be located. A further control at Broxtowe Borough and Penn-North) had to be shut The existing monorail behind consultation to be completed by Council in May. The new for two days during the rioting the east side hotels would be 28 June will help inform further Conservative controlling group that hit the city at the end of extended to the Mandalay design and planning work. has said it will be looking towards April. E. B. Havens Bay and Sands convention The new loop would increase quicker and cheaper solutions BOSTON, MA. 3614, the first centres. E. B. Havens tram capacity in Croydon by over such as bus priority to public Type 7 car to be refurbished by LOS ANGELES, CA. Kinkisharyo a third, enabling an extra 1600 transport problems in the area, Alstom, re-entered service on LLC has now agreed terms with passengers an hour to travel in but has also said it would like to 14 May. It carries a new darker organised labour for LRV assembly each direction. Subject to the see any benefits from the two new green livery, new LED lighting, at a factory in Palmdale. LACMTA consultation, funding and the extensions once they are open. new interior floor and wall has exercised its options for an proposal being endorsed by the OXFORD. TramForward has finishes, and features new additional 60 cars, increasing Mayor of London, TfL will apply welcomed the Urbed Trams for HVAC equipment and a new solid- the contract value by USD263m. to the Department for Transport Oxford report produced following state low-voltage power supply. The new Monrovia depot for for a Transport and Works Act a seminar held in March. Heating and air conditioning are the Gold line Azusa extension Order to construct and operate This recommended further upgraded; 43 three refurbished was inaugurated on 23 May. the loop this autumn. investigation into the introduction cars should be in service by the The USD265m facility can Construction is anticipated to of trams or light rail to Oxford end of the year. Rollsign accommodate 84 LRVs. E. B. Havens begin in spring 2017 with the loop as an alternative to suggestions CAMDEN – TRENTON, NJ. MEMPHIS, TN. The MATA board operational by autumn 2019. that there should be a road traffic Additional service was provided of directors has suggested that 17-19 GREATER MANCHESTER. tunnel constructed under the city on the diesel light rail River new heritage trams are purchased Track has been laid on the centre. The campaigning arm of line to help offset commuter to get the system back into Second City Crossing (2CC) from the Light Rail Transit Association disruption following the fatal operation, and has put USD32.2m the Victoria Station approach has also welcomed a statement derailment on 13 May, in the capital improvement towards Exchange Square, which from Oxford City Council that it which closed the main line for budget. It is suspended due to will be the first section to open. believed “a tram network would several days. E. B. Havens safety concerns over the ex-Porto Work to create additional tracks attract a wider range of users than CHICAGO, IL. Bombardier has and Melbourne trams. The FTA and revised stopping places at St a bus-based solution”. been awarded a USD180m contract has said that it will approve any Peter’s Square was also evident SOUTH YORKSHIRE. Track to upgrade the 4.3km (2.7-mile) re-opened tramway as a new during May when some weekend reconstruction in the city centre airport transit system at O’Hare line, with consequent standards closures of the city centre section started on 11 May and was to International Airport, including imposed. took place to also allow the Market continue through June. The 36 new Innovia rubber-tyred cars NEWARK, NJ. The AirTrain Street stop to be reconstructed. section between Park Square and CBTC communications. RGI Bombardier monorail that has St Peter’s Square will close on bridge and Castle Square was to DALLAS, TX. The Oak Cliff linked airport terminals since 28 June with no trams running be closed until 2 June, with the tramway had mixed reliability 1996 will need replacement in through until the end of August. section between Castle Square after its opening on 13 April, 2022, and an initial budget of After that there will only be one and Leopold Street then closed since only one Brookville car USD40m has been approved for track available and trams will not until 28 June. These works form was available for service. The design work. E. B. Havens stop again until a new two island the Second and Third Phases of second tram, 301, was delivered NEW YORK, NY. Driver training platform stop is completed in a four-phase reconstruction – the on 15 May. E. B. Havens started on 1 June on the subway August 2016. A further period of final phase will take place between DETROIT, MI. The purchase line 7 extension to 34th St/11th full closure is planned for July/ City Road and Gleadless from agreement for six trams from Ave on Manhattan’s west side. It August 2016. 29 June to 30 August. A new tram Inekon was finally signed in June. was hoped public service would NOTTINGHAM. A n above route (Green) was instituted to Delivery of the double-ended cars start within six weeks. E. B. Havens inflation rise in Nottingham’s replace parts of the Yellow and is scheduled for the end of 2016. NORFOLK, VA. Beach Workplace Parking Levy has Blue routes. It ran from They will have battery packs for city council voted on 12 May to not been ruled out by the City Meadowhall via Park Square off-wire operation; 60% of the extend to the Council. Currently a GBP375 to Sheffield Station and on to line will be wire-free. E. B. Havens city centre and adopt a budget (EUR520m) per-car charge is Halfway. FORT WORTH, TX. Stadler has that includes a USD20m levied on companies with more TYNE & WEAR. A special event been chosen to supply eight diesel contribution. The project still than 11 parking spaces within marking the 40th anniversary LRVs for its commuter rail line needs federal approval. the city centre area. This raised of Metrocar prototypes 4001 linking the city centre and DFW Virginian-Pilot just over GBP9m (EUR12.5m) and 4002 was organised for 31 airport. There is an option for ORLANDO, FL. O n e in the 2014-2015 financial May, with a trip from Newcastle up to 24 more. E. B. Havens passenger died when an airport year. The city council has been Airport to Percy Main by the HONOLULU, HI. The 0.5% peoplemover train made an hoping to achieve an income of Metrocars followed by a steam rail tax has been extended for a emergency stop. The victim GBP12m (EUR17m) but has said train journey to the Stephenson further five years in order to was thrown through the front it was satisfied with last year’s Railway Museum where provide USD1.8bn to meet cost window and fell to the ground results – but could make no passengers were treated to overruns on the light metro under the viaduct. The system promises for the future during afternoon tea. project. E. B. Havens has eight Bombardier rubber-tyred

288 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org cars that are due to be replaced SANTA ANA, CA. The FTA has storage shed. A new underframe CONTRIBUTORS in 2018. E. B. Havens issued first stage approval for has been constructed in Leeds and Worldwide items should be sent to PHILADELPHIA, PA (PATCO). the proposed modern tramway delivered to Ipswich. Worldwide Editor Michael Taplin The first six rapid transit cars to receive a federal grant Completion by 2018 is a at Flat 1, 10 Hope Road, Shanklin, refurbished by Alstom entered representing 50% of the cost. condition of the Heritage Isle of Wight PO37 6EA, UK. service on 21 May. E. B. Havens E. B. Havens Lottery Fund grant that covers the Fax: +44 (0)1983 862810 or e-mail: PHOENIX, AZ. Test running on SEATTLE, WA. The first powered major portion of the restoration [email protected] the 5km (three-mile) Mesa light test on the First Hill Streetcar line costs. UK and Ireland items rail extension started in May and (Pioneer Sq – Broadway) took PORTLAND, OR (US). are welcomed by the Home passenger service was scheduled place on 18 May. On 20 May the The News Editor, John Symons, for late June. E. B. Havens use of battery power on the Inekon resumed operation for the season 17 Whitmore Avenue, Werrington, PORTLAND, OR. The first set Trio car was tested. E. B. Havens on 30 June, with Saturday and Stoke-on-Trent, ST9 0LW, UK. of TriMet’s Type 5 Siemens LRVs TUCSON, AZ. On 21 May the one Sunday operation departing E-mail: [email protected] entered service on 27 April. The millionth passenger was carried from 311 N. State St in Lake Contributors this month batch is 521-38, but just 523-4 on the new tramway (opened Oswego at 12.00 and 14.00 on include Richard Buckley and were in service initially. 525-6 25 July 2014). E. B. Havens 28 June. From July Friday service Mike Haddon. Acknowledgements joined them on 5 May; 11 cars WASHINGTON, DC. B y is also provided. Replica Council are also due to BS Blickpunkt had been received by the end of 1 June there was still no Crest car 514 is used with a Strasenbahn, Cambridge News, May. Governor Kate Brown and opening announcement for generator trailer. E. B. Havens CityMetric, DS Drehscheibe US Senator Jeff Merkley rode the the H St/Benning Rd tramline. SEATON (UK). Plans for a Strassenbahn, Edinburgh Evening entire length of the MAX 11.7km The latest development is new Art Deco-styled station News, EA Eisenbahn Amateur, (7.3-mile) Orange line on a test that eight staff have been on the existing Seaton site Emirates 24/7, Globes, GR N run on 15 May. dismissed for organising for the were shown off at an exhibition Global Rail News, Gold Coast Correcting one item in the June Amalgamated Transit Union. at Seaton Town Hall on 8 Bulletin, India Today, I R J issue, the new The Silver Line metro May. More than 100 people International Rail Journal, Irish bridge will open on 12 September, extension from Reston to Dulles inspected the plans, with Independent, Manchester Evening but a limited opening will take International Airport will open overwhelming support reported News, MfSS Meddelanden från place on 9 August (not 20 August), a year later than expected, in for the design and concept. Svenska Spårvägssällskapet, in connection with an annual summer 2019, due to design TUCSON, AZ (US). Old Pueblo Nottingham Evening Post, OR Op event called the Providence Bridge changes. E. B. Havens Trolley’s ex-Lisboa two-axle de Rails, RGI Railway Gazette Pedal, in which almost all of the tram, now equipped with a International, Rollsign, Seaton many bridges around downtown VENEZUELA pantograph, will be tested on the Tramway, The Age, Times of Portland (including freeway CARACAS. The suburban city modern tramline this summer, India, ‘Tram’, T-2000 Tram-2000, bridges) are closed to motorised of Los Teques is building its own working from the latter’s depot. urbanrail.net, Virginian-Pilot and traffic and opened to cyclists. 5.9km (3.7-mile) metro, linked to E. B. Havens Wolverhampton Express & Star. After 9 August, the bridge will be the Caracas system, and ordered closed again until 12 September. 22 six-car trains from Alstom. The opening ceremony for the The first was delivered in May USD1.49bn project is scheduled after completion at Valenciennes for 11.00 on 12 September, with in France. Passenger service free rides on all city transit on should start at the end of 2015. that day. VALENCIA. The north-south The body overhaul programme light metro line 1 was extended for the Type 1 LRVs (the Bombardier north by 1.5km (0.9 miles) from cars of 1983-86), which began in Cedeño to Francisco de Miranda 2003, was slowed down during the on 29 April. urbanrail.net great recession, but is continuing. Of the 26 cars of the type, 21 MUSEUM NEWS have completed the programme BLACK COUNTRY LIVING and two (101/12) are currently MUSEUM (UK). The 3ft 6in undergoing the work (with 101 (1067mm) gauge tramway at next due for completion; 112 only the museum has been out of use entered the overhaul programme since 2013 due to the state of in March or April). Cars 102/3/16 the track. Concerted efforts are the only Type 1 LRVs that have are now being made to replace yet to enter the programme and the worst sections with new thus are continuing in service in rail and it is hoped to their original 1980s livery and re-introduce tram services this with their original windows. summer. Although the current fleet livery CAMBRIDGE/IPSWICH (UK). was adopted in 2002, all but Restoration of the last remaining one (235) of the 52 Type 2 cars still horse-drawn tramcars from wear the pre-2002 livery. Cambridge should be completed S. J. Morgan, E. B. Havens within three years. Vehicle 7 was SAN FRANCISCO, CA (Muni). in service until 1914 (Cambridge The first official walk through of tramways never being electrified) the USD1.6bn 2.7km (1.7-mile) when it was sold for use as a 2015 Central Subway light rail tunnel workshop in Ely. It is currently in OF took place on 16 May. Passenger the care of the Ipswich Transport FESTIVAL MODEL TRAMWAYS service is planned for 2019, Museum where a GBP59 000 Arnhem Gallery, Fairfield Halls once fitting out and testing have (EUR82 000) restoration project been completed. From 24 May is underway. Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG LRV trains have Originally built as a single deck Sat. July 18, 10am - 5pm, £8 been able to double-berth at Civic vehicle, car 7 had an upper deck Website: www.tramwayinfo.com Center, Powell and Montgomery added but was reduced again to facebook.com/tramwayfestival subway stations. E. B. Havens single deck format on sale as a

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 289 Letters

MAILBOX Get your views into print Letters should be clearly typed and preferably not handwritten. [email protected] +44 (0)1733 367615 We reserve the right to shorten contributions for publication.

Tramway engineering during the ‘wilderness years’

Homegrown tramway engineering expertise certainly didn’t die out during the UK generation gap (UK Street Track: have we got it right? – TAUT 929). Far from it. In 1959, when Leeds trams were finishing, Sheffield and Glasgow still had trams and Crich became the site for a new museum tramway. Alongside the trams themselves, Tramway Museum Society (TMS) members ‘downloaded’ know-how and paraphernalia from those dying systems and, for a few extra years, from trolleybus undertakings. Permanent way and OLE team members supplemented their knowledge from surviving textbooks, by learning from overseas practice and by dismantling triumphs of tramway engineering such as the Salford Grand Union and London conduit track. Blackpool soldiered on with street tramways throughout the wilderness years, and Edgar Allen Engineering of Sheffield continued to design and manufacture tramway junctions. Creating, maintaining and extending a public tramway like the one at Crich to the requirements of insurers and ABOVE: The problems caused by locating the Government using secondhand materials is not to be point switches in a busy bus lane – Mosley lightly dismissed. The wide variety of wheel configurations Street inbound points, Manchester, April and diameters, suspension systems and means of propulsion 1993. The inset image (right) shows the added to the challenge. It would be preposterous to claim broken point blade standing off, or failing to that none of this would be relevant to new tramways, yet that lie snugly against the stock rail, because of is what was implied by the rift which took hold when trams ploughed-in rail detritus. David Holt became respectable again. In the 1980s, when it became apparent that trams were of the most multi-disciplinary activities ever undertaken by going to be reborn in the UK, alert professionals began man – and the constraints imposed on the implementation honing their knowledge, looking at systems at home and process severely curtailed time and resources. A kind of abroad, and attending conferences. They wanted to hit the ‘crossword syndrome’ (an unwillingness to be fed the answers ground running, apply best practice and avoid mistakes. you wanted to solve yourself, and take full credit for) may Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive also have been a factor. Some blame must attach to expert (GMPTE) set a particularly good example, taking care to bystanders who just weren’t pushy enough. involve user groups and politicians in the process. TMS/Light What then were the penalties of ‘re-inventing the wheel’ Rail Transit Association legal expertise crucially supported and what avoidable mistakes were made? the tramway revival. In a similar vein, leading GMPTE l Rail Perpendicularity: Initially the grooved (girder) rails officers and a tramway consultant from Prague, already were tilted inwards to match railway wheel coning; this was friendly with the TMS because of Prague 180, visited Crich found to be impractical on small-radius curves (try bending in 1988 with the intention of establishing a liaison with a desk ruler in two planes), and would have caused rapid, and TMS practitioners and scouring the extensive information probably noisy, initial sidewear. The inclination was then in the TMS Library. This expertise has been applied applied by grinding. All grooved rails have since been installed elsewhere, notably on the Manx Electric Railway and the vertically, as evidenced by the running bands on new rail. Tramway. l Tie-bars: Tie-barring of grooved rails would have aided There were, then, easy opportunities for conserved construction and discouraged rail tilting, as well as providing knowledge to be ‘uploaded’ to the tramway revival thanks to a sturdier, safer and perhaps quieter track structure. the similarities between old and new street infrastructure, l Transition curves: Because it was claimed that bogies would many based on immutable laws of physics. Sadly these impart their own ‘virtual transitions’, there was a failure to opportunities withered on the vine when the UK Treasury specify them in the track at all changes of curvature; this imposed a Design, Build, Operate & Maintain (DBOM) form of opened the door to geometrical anarchy, manifesting itself as contract for Metrolink, insisting that ‘the private sector knows bogie-twitching kinks. best’ and must be left to get on with the job. Contrary to l Points location: In Manchester, placing the inbound Westminster’s breezy faith, the private sector didn’t necessarily Mosley Street point switches within a busy bus lane meant know best, and DBOM gave free rein to practitioners who that the points repeatedly became clogged with ploughed- were, comparatively, strangers to trams. Bypass construction in dirt causing the tongues to ‘stand off’ and lose detection. and heavy railways are not wholly appropriate backgrounds A toe broke off at least once. Processions of privatised buses for street tramway construction, and that is why all available hampered access for repair, manual operation, maintenance tram expertise ought to have been taken on board. and cleaning. Eventually some of the buses were re-routed Why wasn’t it? Apart from the frontiersmanship projected and the bus lane was awkwardly diverted to avoid the point onto the contractors by Whitehall, there may also have been switches. Pre-sorting points, installed originally, would a reluctance to be seen to accept and trust freely-given advice have been a much more elegant solution, avoiding years of when hefty fees were being paid to consultants. The multiple disruption and expense. interfaces complicating a challenging project didn’t help – l Crossings: Crossings with full-depth flangeways were installing street tramways in a city centre must rank as one specified because it was claimed that the wheel treads would

290 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org be wide enough to span the gaps. In reality, contact areas tramway experts would have exposed the futility of tilting no bigger than a five pence piece are easily interrupted by grooved rails before it was ever attempted in practice. intersecting flangeways, causing noise and vibration – as also So have we got UK street track right yet? No, must be the happened in Nottingham until flange-running was adopted answer, but as James Snowdon says, we are beginning to in compliance with long-established tramway practice. learn. Thankfully the first-second generation estrangement This is only a partial list of issues linked by a common is now being eased by UKTram and, to a lesser extent, by theme which most certainly is not hindsight. In each the Association, and in other less formal case, heeding input from friendly unpaid practitioners ways – but more needs to be done. Next steps could include – engineering-minded tramway specialists with proven the establishment of a Faculty of Tramway Engineering at a experience – would have saved significant delay and expense. university, or, failing that, a tramway engineering discussion In the case of tie-bars, pre-sorting, crossings and transitions, group or think tank with clear objectives. Then we might be the correct advice was given to the right people at the right getting somewhere. time, and was not complied with. An early design review by David Holt, by e-mail

Welcoming Oxford LRT plans Flange running to reduce noise Determination of Tramway Wheel and Nicholas Falk and Reg Harman’s proposal for I was surprised that Scott McIntosh did not Rail Profiles to Minimise Derailment (RTU, LRT in Oxford deserves serious consideration make more of the use of flange running Manchester Metropolitan University, 2008) – but why does the westward branch of in reducing noise – perhaps because it has says the flange heights on the new UK light the proposed Line 2 extend only as far as been so standard for years. However, while rail systems are 24-30mm. With one wheel Eynsham? Also, it would seem more logical the ‘bang’ of the wheel hitting the frog is flange running and the other tread running for this line to be combined with Line 4 from banished, there is still the ‘click’ of the flange the wheelset would turn a circle of 18m Kidlington to the city centre. hitting the steel ramp and then a ‘click’ as the radius or less, the minimum radius usually In 2001 Oxfordshire County Council wheel drops onto the rail. used for a right angle turn in street running. commissioned a study from Mott MacDonald Melbourne tried resilient crossings, which This would reduce the major component of on the feasibility of reopening the branch were very good at reducing this noise – even noise resulting from the differing distances line to Witney. The report concluded that with the solid-wheeled W class trams, but travelled by the inner and outer wheels of a reopening the line as heavy rail would there was excessive maintenance, and the wheelset, so the only slide (and noise) would cost GBP107m (approx. EUR173m, both idea was abandoned. See a photo in MMTB be because the axles in a bogie were not at 2001 prices) and would not be viable, News September 1964 at tdu.to/35382.att. pointing directly at the centre of curvature. but recommended further studies into Each crossing of two rails had a star shape Professor Lesley provided a beautifully bad light rail to Carterton costing GBP79m laid in the intersecting grooves, glued on example of flange running at a frog in TAUT (EUR128m) including rolling stock and top of rubber blocks. This meant 16 stars 928. It is evident that virtually all trams took a guided busway to Witney only costing for two double tracks crossing each other. I the one route; there is no indication of the GBP74m (EUR120m). The County Council understand that the stars tended to unglue, other route being used. In this situation, that at that time was keen on guided busways, and could either get caught up in the bogie of the overwhelming majority of crossovers and no further consideration was given to or end up on the roadway, a hazard to other sited for emergency use only, and not used the LRT option. traffic. The flanges then damaged the rubber regularly for short turns, a ‘lift’ or ‘jump’ frog In 2013 a stakeholder lobby group called blocks. One would have thought that (a) all should be used. In this case the rail on the Witney Oxford Transport (WOT) started stars could be welded into one grid, so that normal route is continued with no gap and looking at ways to solve congestion on the A40, individual pieces could not be dislodged, hence no noise. The crossing rail uses flange and seems to favour a combination of heavy and/or (b) a keeper could be inserted at each running, with the bottom of the groove at the rail from Yarnton and park-and-ride stations. end to retain them in position (thanks to same height as the railhead on the main rail. In the meantime the County Council has Richard Youl for this suggestion). This latter Regarding James Snowdon’s article UK obtained a grant of GBP35m which will not would be very desirable at short lengths, such Street Track: Have we got it right? (TAUT 929), pay for a rail solution (or a guided busway), and as at a frog and its corresponding check rail. I recently went to Basel, where new track is proposing bus tidal flow lanes on the A40. I first realised the benefits of flange running was being laid near Bahnhof St Johann. I am Incidentally, Radley is not cut off from in Frankfurt, when the tram I was on went not certain if the plastic sheet was just laid Abingdon – there is a bus service from Radley round the turning circle with no more noise between the rails (and over the tie-bars), or station every 15-20 minutes. Abingdon than on straight track. Other trams went under them – no doubt alongside the rails enjoys good bus services, with nine buses an round in near silence. I inspected the track, would be sufficient as the rails would have hour to Oxford, of which three every hour and found, rather than the flange running been laid with a rubber pad between rail and run through to Oxford station, and three at Porta Maggiore mentioned by David Holt concrete. Concrete grids were used to enable buses an hour to Didcot Parkway station. (TAUT 929), the outer rail had been replaced other vehicles to run over grass track. Martin Smith, Abingdon, UK by a steel bar on which the flanges ran. Dudley Horscroft, Banora Point, NSW, Australia

The full list of the year’s meetings and meeting places MEETINGS & EVENTS can also be found at www.lrta.org

JUNE 2015 Saturday 27. Beeston 14.00. Saturday 11. Oxford & Chilterns Terry Chase: Tower trams and Modelling – what’s on your work 14.00. Near Towcester. (TLRS) white elephants – Part 4. (TLRS) Tuesday 16. London 19.00. bench? (TLRS) Wednesday 15. Bristol 19.30. Tuesday 21. Leeds 18.00. Annual Members' evening: 21st Century Saturday 27. Garstang 14.00. Model Brian Lomas: Italy 2013 – Part 2. Evening Tour to . Meet UK trams. tram workshop session. (TLRS) Thursday 16. Dartford 19.30. Alan Kirkgate. GBP10, including musuem Thursday 18. Dartford 19.30. Derek Williams: Belgium and elsewhere. admission. Free Refreshments. Sayer: Reminisce with Dell. (TLRS) JULY 2015 (TLRS) Tuesday 21. London 19.00. London Saturday 20. Taunton 14.00. Saturday 18. Croydon 10.00-17.00. Area AGM, followed by Alan Pearce: Speaker TBC. (TLRS ) Wednesday 8. Brighton 19.30. Peter Festival of Model Tramways. (TLRS) Films from the LRTA Archive. Thursday 25. Manchester 19.00. Williams: Frogs, Ears and Pull-Offs Saturday 18. Beeston. Outing to the Saturday 25. Beeston 14.00. Metrolink Airport line ride, meet at – The development of tram and Festival of Model Tramways. (TLRS) Modelling – what’s on your work St Peter’s Square – 18.30 for 19.00. trolleybus overhead systems. (TLRS) Monday 20. Wickham 19.30. bench? (TLRS)

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JULY 2015 / 291 Classic Trams THE WANDERER 1 RETURNS Last year, Mike Russell received an urgent message inviting him to a meeting at the Burton Brewery Museum. It presaged a last-ditch attempt to save a former British tramcar from potential destruction.

uring the 1970s, the remains Railway livery it joined the Detroit Citizens’ One might question why the SBR, a of three former tramcars Railway (DCR) and served for around 20 years narrow-gauge private railway, should have an operated by the Burton & until operations ceased in June 2003. Initially interest in acquiring a 109-year-old double- Ashby Light Railways (B&ALR) the city rather cheekily described its tramway deck British tramcar. The answer is quite were located at Church Gresley as the world’s fourth double-deck system, but simple: the SBR’s lines near Tamworth are Din Derbyshire (UK), close to their former line. at least this emphasised the importance it barely ten miles from the nearest point of the The B&ALR was one of Britain’s more placed on having B&ALR 14 on the fleet. old B&ALR at Ashby and the car would thus unusual tramways. There were only five Detroit’s finances steadily deteriorated as be of great local interest. electrically-powered tramways in the UK a result of the decline of local industry and The meeting’s acquiescence to the SBR owned and operated by railway companies. depopulation, and in July 2013 the city filed proposal was not misplaced. Late on The B&ALR – built by the former Midland for bankruptcy and sought to divest itself of 5 November came news that its bid had Railway – was by far the most extensive in surplus assets. During the second half of 2014 been successful, albeit at a far higher sum track mileage (10.2 miles, plus 1.5 miles of it announced that three of the stored DCR (reportedly USD34 500) than the local group running powers over Burton Corporation tramcars were to be auctioned off. This news could have offered. Events then moved tracks) – but was also the shortest-lived. reached the UK in early September and it swiftly, although not until difficulties with The tramway opened in July 1906 and transpired that B&ALR 14 was amongst those local trade unions had been resolved could provided a true interurban service between to be offered. It somehow seemed right and the car be extricated from the shed. Burton upon Trent (Staffordshire) and proper that B&ALR 14 should come home. Car 14 left Detroit on 17 November, Ashby-de-la-Zouch (Leicestershire), en The purpose of that call on 31 October departing on 11 December from the port of route traversing the fields and serving the was to raise funds to purchase the car at the Baltimore aboard the MV Atlantic Conveyor, industrial settlements of South Derbyshire; 5 November auction. A total of 17 devotees and arriving at the Royal Seaforth Container there was a branch from Swadlincote attended that meeting, several as a result of Port, Liverpool, on 23 December. Journey’s (roughly the mid-point of the line, where publicity from Radio Derby. With promises end at Statfold Barn was on 12 January 2015. the depot was situated) to Castle Gresley. secured elsewhere the amount pledged by Land transport was by road throughout. For Serious traffic decline brought about largely the end of the meeting was over GBP5000 – a those who attended the Burton meeting on by unregulated post-war bus competition good augury for a scheme started at such 1 November, a special viewing of the car was resulted in closure in February 1927. short notice. Had time been on its side, it is arranged for 24 January. It has since been The system operated 20 tramcars in two probable that the full costs of acquisition and housed in the Grain Store, a building remote broadly similar batches. Built by Brush of shipment could have been raised; but time from the main railway terminal facilities. Loughborough, they were unvestibuled is the enemy in these situations and there Its first public appearance was on 28 March. four-wheel double-deck cars seating 57 was no prospect of quickly raising sufficient The extent of the work necessary to return passengers (22 inside, 35 outside) on Brill 21E funds to ensure that the car could be secured 14 to working order will not be known until trucks to the line’s gauge of 3ft 6in (1067mm). and shipped back to the UK. a full assessment has been undertaken. The There were several steep gradients, with upper-deck railings were damaged during two of around 1:11, and the cars featured Enter the Statfold Barn Railway storage in Detroit and the trolley mast is magnetic track brakes in addition to the Amongst those at the meeting was a missing. At present it still stands on the usual rheostatic and hand brakes. Car 14 was representative of the Statfold Barn Railway 900mm-gauge Lisboa truck on which it from the second batch and its remains were (SBR), a private triple-gauge field and operated in Detroit, but that will be replaced recovered with a view to restoration, but a garden railway north-east of Tamworth in at the SBR by a truck of narrower gauge. lack of parts, money and labour resulted in Staffordshire. The SBR had already been Operation in the UK will be by some form of the work nearly being abandoned. At that alerted to the situation by the Beamish internal power. Happily, Lisboa 6 and cross- point, a potential saviour was identified, museum, itself no stranger to acquiring bench car 247, the other tramcars auctioned albeit on the other side of the Atlantic. rolling stock in distressed situations. The on 5 November, also found local US buyers. problem was that most attendees were For those who wish to see B&ALR 14 ‘in Life on the other side of the pond not railway people and knew little of its the metal’, the next SBR public open day is on The city of Detroit, Michigan, had developed a operations. A couple, however, knew it well 12 September. Prior application is essential line as part of a bicentennial and vouched for its legitimacy. and a form can be downloaded from www. year urban renewal project; operation began The SBR representative made a generous statfoldbarnrailway.co.uk. There is no entry on 20 September 1976. The initial 1.2km offer: if the SBR was allowed to deal with the fee, but a donation of GBP10 is invited. (0.75-mile) single-track and loop from the car negotiations, then it would pay whatever it Car 14’s recovery and return owes sheds along Washington Boulevard to Cobo took to secure the car and return it to Britain. everything to the support and imagination Hall was laid to 900mm gauge and in 1980 For this purpose it agreed to use the services of the owners and operators of the Statfold the city sought trams to cater for an extension of a sympathetic US agent already retained Barn Railway, especially Graham Lee and to Renaissance Center. A traditional British by the Burton group. Faced with the prospect Henry Noon, and they deserve your support double-decker seemed an enticing prospect of competing with wealthy American trophy in coming to the rescue of this rather special to complement the fleet of former Lisboa two- hunters, this was far too good an offer to vintage British tramcar. axle cars and in May 1980, partially completed reject and held out the realistic prospect of and still unpainted, B&A 14 left for New York. saving the car. Furthermore, it was SBR’s The author offers grateful thanks to Henry After completion of restoration work, stated intention to return the car to working Noon of the Statfold Barn Railway for providing including painting to former Midland order and demonstrate it at its open days. additional information for this article.

292 / JULY 2015 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org 1. The heyday of the Midland Railway company’s Burton & Ashby Light Railways, with cars 1 and 13 (numerically the first and last of the first batch) outside Ashby-de-la-Zouch station. A short section of former BG&ALR track survives here to this day. Copyright: Ashby Museum

2. Burton & Ashby car 14 on display within the Grain Store at the Statfold Barn Railway on 28 March 2015 following its return from Detroit. Although the condition of the paintwork has deteriorated with time, the car still proudly displays the insignia of its railway owner on the waist panel. Mike Russell

3. Car 14 ready for shipment to America in early 1980, at which stage restoration work was far from finished and completion had to be undertaken in the USA. Tim Stubbs’ collection

4. The car in service on the Detroit Citizens’ Railway on 2 22 June 1983, seen at the Cobo Hall passing-loop heading for Renaissance Center before the throngs of tourists were out and about (note the smartly- attired crew of two female staff). Destined for Washington Boulevard and the Car Sheds is no. 3, one of several Lisboa cars acquired for operation on the line; this example was one of the 5xx series of semi- convertible cars built at Santo Amaro works in 1924/5. Mike Russell

5. The classic lower saloon aspect of a typical pre-Great War British-built double-deck tramcar, with two banks of full longitudinal wooden seating: Burton & Ashby 14 at Statfold Barn Railway on 28 March 2015. Mike Russell

6. The upper-deck of B&A 14 3 4 showing the typical wooden reversible transverse seats. Note that the trolley mast is missing, having been removed in Detroit at an earlier date. Mike Russell

5 6

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So war die Reutlinger Straßenbahn Straßenbahnjournal Jahrbuch 2014 Berichte und Informationen über The story of a small town tramway that sadly closed die Wiener Straßenbahn in 1974 despite the fleet including three modern A pictorial review of Vienna articulated cars of the trams during 2014 plus Stuttgart GT type that features on Pyongyang (North were only ten years old. Korea), Basel (Switzerland) and A 45-minute DVD with ex-Vienna cars in other cities. historic scenes is included. German text. German text. A4 softback; 76 pages, 200 mm x 200 mm hardback; 160 pages, 138 black 185 colour pictures. & white and 17 colour pictures plus four maps. £21.50 plus postage & £24.50 plus postage & packing as shown above. packing as shown above.

Served by London’s Trolleybuses Straßenbahnjournal Sonderheft 3 Die vielen Gesichter der Linie 26 The author takes us on a tour of the busy routes Picture album covering served during the capital’s the many changes to this 31-year involvement with route in the Floridsdorf trolleybuses and looks at and Kagran area from the their operation both 1970s to its most recent pre- and post-war, including new extension to Aspern. the detailed planning of German text. the conversion programme. A4 softback; 24 pages, A4 hardback; 200 pages, 39 full- and half-page fully illustrated in black colour pictures. & white. £10.50 plus postage £30.00 plus postage & packing as shown above. & packing as shown above.

The men who pioneered By Whing to Port Soderick Electric Transportation Describes the tourist From the USA perspective tramway which ran to the contribution made by the south of Douglas on , the Isle of Man, along Frank Sprague, Nikola Tesla, the Marine Drive and a George Westinghouse and spectacular coast-hugging others to the development route passing a bay of tramway technology known as ‘The Whing’. is described. 210mm x 210mm A4 softback; 48 pages, softback; 52 pages, illustrated in black & white. 100 colour and black & white ‘then and now’ pictures plus map.

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ATLANTA SYSTEMS FACTFILE: TRAM WHEEL/RAIL STREETCAR FREIBURG INTERFACES In late December 2014 the city of Atlanta Freiburg im Breisgau in the south-western Bob Hall continues his examination of finally opened its first streetcar line, just German State of Baden-Württemberg the issue of wheel/rail interaction on complying with various promises made is now building for the future with modern tramways with an analysis of the by the Mayor. It is not without its teething system extensions and new trams. development of different rail profiles and troubles, however, as Vic Simons explains. Neil Pulling reports. girder and check rail design. PLUS... AUGUST + Reports from the UK Light Rail Conference and UITP Congress ISSUE + The latest news, rolling stock orders and movements, system developments, transport policy and leading industry comment on sale from around the world 17th July

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JULY 2015 N O. 931 market WARSAW’S 21 ST CENTURY URBAN RAIL REVOLUTION Now entering its 78th year, Tramways & Urban Transit

With major mergers and aBoVe: Bombardier’s tram and light rail business is important to the canadian-owned conglomerate’s acquisitions being finalised wider rail interests, with contracts across europe, north america, asia and australasia. significant recent – and more rumoured for the orders include new low-floor trams for the german cities of Düsseldorf and köln; seen here is a computer- generated image of the latest Flexity design for Düsseldorf. Bombardier near future – michael taplin is the world’s leading monthly publication dedicated offers an early analysis of “Of course once a market becomes the dominant what the future may hold territory of a few manufacturers, new companies will for the world’s biggest tram emerge to challenge them; some will make a success of and metro car builders. it [with] shorter delivery times and keener prices.” hese days nothing stands still even if the finished product had to be sent for very long in the world of halfway across Europe. As the manufacturers for a while. But if your competitors have the business. Forty years ago the grew, with more facilities at their disposal, same cost base, perhaps it does not matter companies manufacturing specialisation came to the fore with the final (although the high cost of US LRVs cannot railway rolling stock – including be blamed entirely on superior buff-strength tramsT and metro cars – were names that had assembly plant putting together mechanical solely to light and urban rail developments. requirements). been familiar for decades, and there was and electrical parts from a number of different factories. And the electrical So names we are familiar with today – usually a particular geographical relevance, Alstom, AnsaldoBreda, Bombardier, Siemens not just between different countries, but equipment became a much more significant part of the total than when two controllers et al – have a multi-faceted history. Of course also between the different regions within once a market becomes the dominant them. EU tendering rules were barely off the and four motors were all that were needed. With North America fast becoming a territory of a few manufacturers, new Examining the tramway wheel/rail interface ground, so the local factory of the traditional companies will emerge to challenge them; local manufacturer often won the order. growth market for LRVs, the Buy America protectionism legislation caused international some will make a success of it, living off their China’s metro fund-raising drive The creation of a true common ability to offer shorter delivery times and market in Europe, and the increasing manufacturers to wonder how they might compete, even though their products were keener prices thanks to lower overheads. internationalisation of the manufacturers Our annual rolling stock orders survey (see Houston opens two new LRT lines through mergers and acquisitions, changed often technically more advanced than the few surviving domestic products (which TAUT 928) has in recent years introduced all this. No-one, apart from a few left of names such as CAF, Pesa, Solaris, Stadler and centre politicians, cared much any more soon disappeared, the dreadful Boeing-Vertol Vienna reveals driverless U5 plan LRV being the last gasp). The answer was of Vossloh, which may have long histories but ISSN 1460-8324 where their trams came from; the order were not so relevant to vehicle manufacture £4.25 course to set up a local manufacturing base, 07 went to the manufacturer offering the until recently. lowest price that met the specification, a seemingly expensive solution that had to Orléans be absorbed into the price of the products However Vossloh has already decided on Rolling stock a course to divest its rail vehicle interest, 771460 832043 LRT’s vital role in a 9 272 / JUly 2015 www.tautonline.com Global mergers and . www.lrta.org acquisitions analysis historic French city We deliver comprehensive news and analysis,

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