Moscow introduces first single-section trams in the north-west of the city

Moscow, Russia (Urban Transport News): First single-section trams entered service in the north-west of Moscow, reports the city’s Department of Transport. Designed to accommodate 110 persons, they have 18% more seats than the single-section trams of the previous generation. Moreover, they are equipped with USB ports and media screens. New trams will run along the routes that have less ridership even during peak hours and are supposed to gradually replace the high-floor Tatra-T3 trams.

"Trams are the most eco-friendly and efficient ground transport. They carry almost 3 times as many passengers per hour as buses. In accordance with the Mayor’s order, we will develop the tram network in Moscow, so that the tram becomes as reliable as Moscow Metro. To do this, we are completely changing the repair technology to no longer stop traffic, so the works on the tram infrastructure will be unnoticed by passengers and residents. We also increase the comfort of travel, purchase new rolling stock — for the first time in Moscow, we have modern low-floor single-section cars that are convenient for all passengers," said Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor for Transport.

It is planned that the city will have 130 single-section low-floor trams by 2023. Due to renovation of rolling stock, in two years the network will be equipped exclusively with new-generation vehicles.

It was previously announced that Moscow Metro would manage the city’s tram infrastructure. It is meant to  increase tram speed, improve track maintenance, halve number of repairs and cut maintenance costs.