Rolling stock manufacturer Škoda Group has won the contract to supply trams to Uppsala, Sweden.
The contract comprises an initial order of 20 bi-directional trams with an option for another 18 vehicles down the line. It also includes long-term maintenance and overhaul services so that Škoda will be responsible for the trams throughout their lifecycle. The total contract value is EUR 270 million.
Uppsala’s tramway is currently under construction and has a planned opening date of 2029. Škoda’s trams will then run on the entire network. The manufacturer said that this contract award marked “another important milestone in the Group’s expansion into the Nordic region”.
Jan Christoph Harder, President Region West and North at Škoda Group, said:This contract is a strong confirmation of Škoda Group's position as a trusted partner for modern and efficient public transport in the Nordic region. Uppsala is building a new tram system with a clear vision for the future, and we are proud that our vehicles will become part of this important transformation. The new trams will combine proven technology for demanding Nordic conditions with a high level of comfort, accessibility and safety for passengers, drivers and the city environment.
The trams Škoda will supply to the city of Uppsala will be based on its Tampere tram platform, which has demonstrated reliable service in Nordic conditions. Taking an established platform as the basis for this new order minimises technical risk, while also allowing the vehicles to be customised to the particular circumstances in Uppsala. Each tram will be 38m long, 100% low-floor and bi-directional.
With 80 fixed seats, Škoda says each tram’s capacity is 186 passengers, measured at 2.5 passengers per square metre. Each vehicle will feature three double doors and two single doors on each side to help efficient passenger flow.
The spec for these trams includes USB charging ports, clear passenger information systems, flexible spaces for wheelchairs and prams and ‘enhanced’ visual and audio guidance, as well as ‘advanced’ climate control.
Digital Technologies
The trams will also feature digital safety technologies, such as Škoda’s anti-collision system, which is designed to help prevent collisions with vehicles, pedestrians and obstacles. Additionally, the trams will contain an intelligent speed limiter system that will automatically adjust the vehicle speed in curves and other specified sections.
Uppsala Tram Network
The new tram network will include 17km of double track with 22 stops. It will connect key areas, including the university and hospital districts, transport hubs and Uppsala Central Station. It is a project that is being jointly developed by Uppsala Municipality and Region Uppsala with the aim of promoting the region’s growth.
