Alstom has unveiled the first Citadis X05 tram that will be delivered to Nantes Métropole later this year.
On 13 February, the new-generation tram travelled at full speed on a 1.4-kilometre test track, where it was admired by elected officials and journalists.
The new vehicles are 6 metres longer than the trams currently operating in Nantes, providing a capacity for 300 passengers, rather than 250.
They also feature extra large windows to allow passengers to enjoy the view and benefit from natural light and increased brightness.
“These future trains are necessary to improve the comfort of users and to inspire the inhabitants of the metropolis to use the tramway on a daily basis. This future tram, I can already imagine it circulating in front of the castle of the dukes!
“With its 40% more glazed surfaces thanks to higher bays, this tramway will offer the inhabitants of Nantes Métropole an unprecedented experience, with an unobstructed view of the city.”
The Citadis X05 tram will reduce energy consumption by 13% compared to Alstom’s previous Citadis vehicles.
They will be delivered to Nantes Métropole from spring 2023 and will complete a series of technical trials on the network before entering passenger service at the end of the year.
49 trains, which were ordered in 2020, will be put into service by 2026.
In 2027, an additional 12 of the new trams will be used for the city’s future lines 6 and 7.
