KVB orders 132 high-floor light rail vehicles from Stadler
€700 million deal brings tailor-made, modular trains with enhanced capacity, comfort, and 30-year reliability to Cologne’s network.
stadlerrail.com
Technological innovation for Cologne's local transport: Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB) is set to significantly modernise its light rail fleet in the coming years and has commissioned Swiss company Stadler to build 132 high-floor light rail vehicles. The order is worth just under 700 million euros. The first vehicles are scheduled for delivery in 2029.
The new trains are precisely tailored to Cologne's light rail network. One of their special features is that two trains can be connected to form a continuous train via a quick-release coupling. The order also includes 34 ten-metre-long intermediate modules that will enable the trains to be extended to around 70 metres. In this configuration, they will offer space for up to 470 passengers, significantly exceeding the capacity of the previous vehicle series and allowing more efficient use of the infrastructure.
Stefanie Haaks, KVB CEO: "Positive signal for the mobility transition"
"The city council's approval of this important project gives us planning security. In view of a challenging budget situation, we are very grateful for the financial support, which sends a positive signal for the implementation of the mobility transition and strong public transport. Both our passengers and drivers can look forward to modern trams and a high level of comfort," says KVB CEO Stefanie Haaks.
The vehicles will be state-of-the-art in terms of technology. The driver's cab offers excellent all-round visibility, an assistance system warns of collisions and a rear-view mirror video system eliminates blind spots. The displays in the cockpit automatically adjust to the ambient brightness and the monitor for video surveillance can be integrated directly into the display. An integrated passenger counting system with evaluation software supports operational planning. Hybrid wheels with aluminium rim rings reduce both weight and driving noise.
New standards for passenger comfort in the interior
The new light rail vehicles also set new standards in the interior. Energy-saving air conditioning ensures a pleasant interior climate with high energy efficiency. Large 29-inch monitors provide up-to-date passenger information, while LED lighting ensures uniform and energy-efficient illumination. Wider aisles and a continuous passenger compartment create a spacious feel and allow for a more even distribution of passengers, which facilitates faster boarding and alighting and reduces waiting times at stops. In their design, both companies consistently focus on state-of-the-art accessibility – from the choice of materials to the colour scheme – to ensure inclusive use for our passengers.
Jure Mikolčić, CEO Stadler Division Germany: "Tailor-made vehicles for Cologne."
"With the new high-floor light rail vehicles, we are joining forces with KVB to send a strong signal for the mobility of the future – comfortable, energy-efficient and ready for the challenges of tomorrow. The vehicles are tailor-made for Cologne and combine state-of-the-art technology with a flexible, modular design," says Jure Mikolčić, CEO of Stadler Division Germany.
30-year service life
KVB also relies on Stadler for sustainability and long-term operational reliability. The new light rail vehicles are not only comfortable and energy-efficient, but also designed for a service life of over 30 years. As part of a long-term partnership, Stadler will ensure the supply of spare parts and provide service and support, from preventive maintenance to technical advice. This will ensure that the vehicles remain reliable, safe and efficient in operation over the long term.
The first ten trains and five connecting modules are scheduled for delivery in 2029 for pre-series operation. Series delivery is scheduled from mid-2030 to the end of 2032. The new vehicles will gradually replace the existing 2200/2300 and 5100 series trains and will be used on lines 4, 13 and 18 from 2029 onwards.
www.stadlerrail.com
