France’s Paris Transit Authority (RATP) has launched the Alstom-built Citadis tram on line T8 of the Ile-de-France tram network that connects Saint-Denis with Epinay-sur-Seine and Villetaneuse.
Covering more than 8km, the Ile-de-France tram line serves 17 stations and enhances transport services to the north-western Seine-Saint-Denis area, as well as offers access to learning centres and business parks.
The new 32m-long and 2.4m-wide Citadis T8 trams will be able to accommodate 200 passengers.
It also features optimum on-board comfort, with low flooring throughout, air conditioning, CCTV, a passenger counting system and audio and visual passenger information.
Alstom Transport France managing director Ana Giros said: "Since the Citadis is modular, Alstom has been able to offer RATP and STIF a product with a personalised design, both for the exterior and the interior of the trams.
"These integrate our latest improvements in terms of accessibility, wider seats and door control buttons more suited to people with reduced mobility."
The vehicle is also recyclable up to 90%, Alstom said.
In 2010, RATP signed a contract with Alstom to deliver 19 trams for line T72 along with an option to provide 20 trams for line T8. The operator exercised this option in April 2013.
The contract for the trams built for Ile-de-France region was financed by STIF and the trains have been manufactured in Alstom factories in France.
Image: The new Alstom Citadis tram will serve RATP’s Ile-de-France tram network. Photo: courtesy of Alstom.
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