Spain embraces the Bombardier FLEXITY design

The introduction of a new transportation system into the urban environment provides the opportunity to re-define the role of public transport beyond that of pure function. Public transport can contribute to an enhanced lifestyle and commuting experience, improved local economy, more efficient use of resources and an optimisation of urban space. Trams are emerging in many cities throughout the world, as a popular and distinctive solution to urban transportation.

One of the challenges of modern times has been to create an urban transportation solution that is environmentally friendly and can accommodate the needs of the travelling public, whilst also merging with, and distinguishing, the character of its local environment. In this context, Bombardier FLEXITY trams in many cities have proven to be an urban transportation role model for the future.

In recent years, FLEXITY Outlook 100% low-floor trams have made their mark throughout Europe. More than 280 vehicles have been ordered by European cities, and are in daily operation in Linz (Austria), Lodz (Poland), Eskisehir (Turkey), as well as in Geneva (Switzerland) and Brussels (Belgium). A striking customised design, reflecting the city’s maritime history, recently entered service in the Mediterranean port of Marseille. Similarly, an individualistic design to reflect their vibrant surroundings has been chosen for the Spanish cities of Alicante and Valencia. These trams are currently entering service and are described in further detail within this article. In addition, FLEXITY Outlook trams have been ordered by the transport authorities of Innsbruck (Austria), Palermo (Italy) and Augsburg (Germany).

Due to their high visual impact, trams are a main source of distinction for a city’s transport system. Therefore, considerations in vehicle design, including interior and exterior styling and colour schemes, are of the utmost importance. The aim is for the trams to achieve synergy with the character and identity of the city and population whilst also creating differentiation, and so separating it from the rest.

Reflecting the individual characteristics of a city and an operator can be achieved through choice of colour schemes or a vehicle shape that has associations or links to the city’s heritage or geography.

Bombardier incorporates these aims and implications into its consideration of aesthetic vehicle design with a view to ensuring harmonious integration of its vehicles into the city’s urban surroundings. In this way, the public transport system can make a vital contribution in defining a city’s identity.

FLEXITY trams feature a modular concept, which brings various benefits. One is flexibility of vehicle configuration, with the opportunity for three, five or seven car modules. There is also the opportunity for flexibility of vehicle design so that cities can be individualistic in their choice of theme. For example, cities such as Marseille and Brussels, have opted for a characteristic and bespoke cab and vehicle design, thus identifying the tram with its surroundings.

Technologically, the FLEXITY Outlook trams are unique in the industry in that they combine conventional wheel-set bogies with 100% low-floor technology, which creates smooth ride characteristics and provides step-less access, thereby enhancing passenger comfort. The floor height of these vehicles is typically between 320 – 350mm above the track; easing access for passengers with pushchairs, mobility difficulties, or heavy shopping. The level entrances and step-free interiors also ease passenger flow.

Special safety features of the trams include a buffer load of up to 40 tons, as well as a raised steel structure under-carriage for optimal passenger protection.

Spanish cities give warm reception to new Bombardier trams

Two Spanish cities are currently taking delivery of Bombardier’s latest technology trams and transforming the travelling experience for their communities. Alicante and Valencia have recently joined in the transport success phenomenon of the Bombardier FLEXITY trams.

Valencia’s urban rail network, consisting of metro and tramways, covers a total of 144 kilometres, of which 17 kilometres are presently tramway lines. Passenger numbers have steadily been increasing in the previous ten years, with the result that Valencia has placed added emphasis on the expansion of its tramway operations. In 2005, the Transport Authority for the Valencia Region, Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat Valencia (FGV), placed an order for 30 new Bombardier FLEXITY Outlook trams valued at approximately 81 million Euros, with an option for a further ten vehicles. Manufactured at Bombardier’s production facility in Bautzen, Germany, the first vehicles started service in the city of Valencia on 11 April 2007. By September 2007, a total of 19 trams will be in operation on Line 4, in support of the existing fleet, and also on a new extension of Line 5, where passengers can change from the metro to the tram at an underground platform to continue their journey as far as the harbour. Later this year, the first sections of line 6 will be completed and it is going to be solely operating with the new vehicles.

Approximately 100 kilometres away from Valencia, Alicante also operates a tram network, which although much smaller than that of Valencia, is being upgraded with 11 new FLEXITY Outlook vehicles. The first trams entered service on 15 June and delivery of the remaining vehicles will be completed in September 2007.

The new trams play an important role in re-defining public transport in both of these southern Spanish cities. Since their introduction, the public has given the new trams a warm welcome; appreciating the modern design and comfortable, spacious interior. The aesthetic design is timeless in appeal with soft curving shapes and flowing lines on the exterior, combined with an interior colour scheme of turquoise seats and blue-grey floors that reflect the surrounding Mediterranean character. The wide windows offer un-obstructed views and create a feeling of immediacy and direct contact with the city from both the passenger area and the driver’s cab. Highlighting the individualities of each city, the livery is a vibrant orange and white colour scheme in Alicante, and a traditional yellow, black and white combination in Valencia; corresponding to the corporate colours of FGV and the tram operators Metro Valencia and Tram Alicante.

In contrast with the old Valencia fleet, the trains are bi-directional for use on the new lines. With a length of 32.5 metres, each tram consists of five modules that are inter-connected by open gangways. The vehicles also include the Bombardier MITRAC propulsion and control system offering high reliability and the latest electronic technology. Passenger information is provided through visual displays, which update passengers on upcoming destinations, interior temperature and current time.

The fleet owner, FGV, places a strong emphasis on sustainability of the environment as well as passenger comfort and accessibility. And the choice of new FLEXITY trams makes a vital contribution in both respects; with energy efficient regenerative braking systems as an example. Ease of access to the vehicles is ensured through a combination of platform level entrances and electric sliding steps to further facilitate boarding and exiting the vehicle. There are four double electric sliding doors per side and two single sliding doors. With a width of 2.4 metres, the spacious, high capacity interiors can accommodate a total of 200 passengers per vehicle, of which 50 places are seated, including tip up seats in designated special purpose areas, where bicycles, prams and wheelchairs can also be located. Air-conditioning ensures passenger comfort, whilst video surveillance increases security.

Bombardier is enthusiastic about this opportunity to supply its latest technology trams to the Spanish market. The company has demonstrated its commitment to supporting both the economy and local development of transportation with two manufacturing and servicing sites in Trápaga (Bilbao) and Alcobendas (Madrid), plus offices in Madrid and Barcelona. Bombardier’s recent projects include support of the delivery and maintenance of the AVE high-speed trains, projects with Metro Madrid and Metro Bilbao, as well as the Madrid Barajas airport people mover. Furthermore, the company has supplied the CITYFLO 450 control solution for Metro Madrid Lines 1 and 6, and has recently been awarded an order for 100 TRAXX locomotives by the Spanish National Railways (RENFE). Now, with a combination of high visual impact, locally inspired character and high technology, Bombardier trams are making their presence felt on the streets of Spain.