THE German cities of Brandenburg an der Havel, Cottbus and Frankfurt an der Oder, in the state of Brandenburg, have awarded a joint contract to Škoda Transportation for the supply of up to 45 ForCity Plus LRVs.

The contract includes a base order of 24 70% low-floor LRVs worth Korunas 3bn ($US 139.7m), as well as options for an additional 21 vehicles.

The LRVs will replace existing high-floor trams in the three cities which are coming to the end of their service life. Frankfurt will receive 13 vehicles, Cottbus seven, and Brandenburg four. 

Additionally, Cottbus has an option for 13 further LRVs, and Brandenburg has an option for eight more. 

The uni-directional, three-section vehicles are equipped with air-conditioning, passenger information systems, driver assistance cameras and multi-functional spaces for wheelchairs, prams or bicycles. The vehicles will be supplied in two different widths to accommodate for the unique requirements of the three cities.

It is hoped that the new LRVs will increase the attractiveness of public transport in the cities, offering improved accessibility for low-mobility passengers, as well as increased efficiency and reduced emissions.

“Without cooperation with Cottbus and Frankfurt, and without state support, we would not be able to renew our fleet of trams,” says CEO of Brandenburg transport company VBBR, Mr Jörg Vogler. “Today is therefore a significant milestone for the safety of tram transport in our city and its electrical and reliable future.”

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