New T1 Tramway: Discover the Final Design and What’s Changing

Residents of Île-de-France have chosen their new T1 Tramway, which will modernize a line that is currently 30 years old.

The T1 line is the first modern tramway line launched in Île-de-France, after its disappearance in 1957. Dating from 1992, its TFS trams are a bit old but will undergo a significant refresh for its 30th anniversary.

Residents of Île-de-France Have Spoken

We knew that the trams would be manufactured by Alstom, model Citadis X05, already operating on other lines like T9. However, the region took an original approach by allowing citizens to vote on their preferred front design from three options until January 21, 2022. It received 12,500 votes from residents over the 15-day voting period. Ultimately, design option no. 2 won the vote (see video).

This new tramway will start operating from 2023 on the tracks of line T1. 37 new trains will gradually replace the old ones to serve the 37 existing stations. An additional 87 trains will also help expand the network.

The line will soon extend westward to Colombes with 11 new stops, followed by Rueil-Malmaison and Nanterre in 2024. To the east, an extension is planned starting in 2023 through 15 stations up to Val de Fontenay.

A Tramway That’s Also More Convenient

The new trams will be longer at 33 meters (compared to 29.4), with a width increasing to 2.40 meters (+10 cm). These new dimensions will allow 15% more passengers, approximately 300 per tram. Access will be via 6 double doors 2.60 meters wide, while accessibility for persons with reduced mobility is fully integrated.

The trams will not only be more attractive but also more eco-friendly. According to Alstom, they are 95% recyclable and will consume 30% less energy compared to the old trams.

Onboard, comfort is expected to significantly improve, as well as the overall experience. Eighteen screens will be placed along the trains for line information, construction updates, or potential incidents. Additionally, 40 USB ports will be available to recharge phones or other electronic devices.

Read also: SNCF Connect – the app and website back on track