Melbourne, 16 March 2007
Siemens is trialling its innovative CombinoPLUS tram in Melbourne as part of the company’s global $A9.6 billion annual research and development program.
According to Siemens Executive General Manager Transportation Systems, Paul Bennett, Melbourne is the ideal city for the trial as it has the world’s third largest tram network.
“The trial of the CombinoPLUS provides an excellent opportunity to obtain valuable insights about its usability from passengers and drivers and to evaluate how it fits with Melbourne’s extensive network,” Mr Bennett said.
The CombinoPLUS, which will be trialled on Yarra Trams Route 16 (Melbourne University - Kew via St Kilda), is six metres longer than current trams in operation and capable of holding up to 232 passengers.
The tram has improved accessibility for passengers with a 100 percent low floor, more double doors, hand rails and grab bars and fewer articulation joints between tram carriages to enable an easier flow of passengers.
In response to commuter feedback to the current Combino trams, the CombinoPLUS also incorporates a number of environmentally friendly features including an advanced regenerative braking system which reduces energy consumption.
Every day millions of passengers worldwide travel on Siemens trams with more than 550 of the current Combino trams operating around the globe, including 59 in Melbourne’s tram fleet.
“The Combino model is used by commuters in more than 15 major cities. The CombinoPLUS is an evolution of this model and was designed based on commuters’ feedback,” Mr Bennett said.
“We are committed to the continuous improvement and development of our low-floor trams and our goal of remaining a global leader in tram technology. The world of transportation is changing at a rapid pace, and passengers want a tram system which is not only safe and accessible but also modern and comfortable.”