European manufacturer Škoda Transportation’s new 28T Konya tram has entered into revenue service in Turkey, as part of Konya municipality’s plans to expand its 21km-long tram line.
The deployment of the tram into operational service is part of the 60 modern bi-directional fully low-floor 28T trams ordered under a €104-7m contract on 4 March 2013.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The first tram for Konya was delivered by Škoda Transportation’s Plzen factory in the Czech Republic on 29 October 2013.
Škoda Transportation chief executive Josef Bernard said: "In less than a year after signing the contract we have managed to develop, produce and deliver the first tram to the Turkish market.
"Moreover, a series production of trams for Konya has been initiated, so we plan to deliver most of the sixty vehicles by the end of the year."
The 32.5m-long tram can accommodate 364 passengers, has five sections and provides easy entry and exit for travellers. It combines Skoda’s experience and quality with features used in suburban units, metros and other trams.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThe air-conditioned tram, which features built-in Wi-Fi receivers for wireless internet connection, was deployed after successfully passing a series of testing.
Project chief engineer Jaroslav Kulhánek said: "The modern two-way 28T Konya tram combines the properties of a suburban public transport unit, subway and tram. On account of the fact that its operation is planned in a 4.5km-long tunnel, the vehicle is constructed as an underground tram; a light subway."
Škoda Electric will supply propulsion systems including inverters, auxiliary converters and traction motors.
Škoda’s 28T trams will also be used in Miskolc, Hungary, which will receive 31 vehicles.
Image: The new bi-directional low-floor 28T tram. Photo: courtesy of Škoda Transportation.
