Alstom’s APS (Alimentation Par Sol) catenary-free technology has made its debut on the Spanish rail network, equipping Barcelona Metropolitan Transport Authority’s (ATM) new tramway extension.
This catenary-free tram line supports Barcelona’s broader goals for sustainable and accessible urban transit.
The 2-kilometre expansion enables the Barcelona tramway to carry an additional 24,000 passengers daily, potentially reducing city centre car traffic by 2,000 vehicles.
Throughout this project, Alstom led the design and installation of the ground-level power supply system, adapting the existing fleet of 18 Citadis trams to operate on the technology.
With the APS system, overhead wires are no longer necessary, allowing for smoother integration into the city’s landscape. Instead, the APS system operates by placing a third conductor rail on the track, divided into sections that activate only when a tram is overhead, ensuring pedestrian safety.
This project represents the first use of APS technology in Spain. To date, Alstom’s APS is active in 11 cities worldwide, such as Bordeaux, Sydney, and Dubai, with over 370 trams operating on 150 kilometres of track.
