Strasbourg modernizes its tramway for 250 million euros

The Strasbourg metropolitan area is continuing to develop its transportation network with an order of 27 additional trams from Alstom.

When thinking of tramways in France, Strasbourg immediately comes to mind. And this feeling is only reinforced by the large order placed by the Alsatian euro-metropolis with Alstom. Specifically, 27 new sets of cars will modernize the current fleet and gradually replace the old Eurotrams. With this delivery, Strasbourg will have 39 latest-generation Citadis trams.

This initiative is part of a framework agreement signed in 2023 between the Strasbourg Transport Company (CTS) and Alstom, for a duration of eight years with a maximum budget of 250 million euros. An initial batch of 12 trams was already ordered in 2023, with service expected starting spring 2025. The new units will be progressively delivered from 2026.

Innovations for optimal comfort

The new Citadis trams, measuring 45 meters long and 2.40 meters wide, are designed to improve accessibility and passenger comfort. Equipped with eight double doors 1.30 meters wide, some at the ends, they facilitate boarding and disembarking. Each tram can carry up to 286 passengers.

In compliance with regulations supporting passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), these trams feature numerous specific accommodations:

Level access for smooth circulation onboard,
All-glass doors for better visibility and a sense of security,
Door open buttons positioned at an appropriate height,
Dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers,
Enhanced illuminated signage facilitating door identification,
An audio system to assist visually impaired passengers in orientation.

These new sets will also provide a pleasant environment thanks to air conditioning, a video surveillance system, and a dynamic passenger information system.

Energy-efficient design

The integration of new technologies will enable Strasbourg’s Citadis trams to reduce their energy consumption by at least 20% compared to previous models. This optimization is possible thanks to more efficient motors, effective thermal management, and a 100% LED lighting system.

Designed for durability, these trams are 95% recyclable and 98% revalorizable. Additionally, their design considers maintenance challenges, reducing preventative operations by 16% over 30 years, due to better component accessibility and optimized spare parts selection.

A French expertise

The manufacturing of these trams involves several Alstom sites across France:

La Rochelle for design and assembly,
Le Creusot for bogies,
Ornans for motors,
Valenciennes Petite-Forêt for interior fittings and spare parts,
Villeurbanne for embedded electronics and cybersecurity,
Aix-en-Provence for tachymetric stations,
Tarbes for electrical equipment,
Sens and Gennevilliers for braking systems.

With over 3,000 Citadis trams operating in 70 cities across 20 countries, Alstom confirms its role as a leader in urban transportation. Since their debut in 2000, these trams have traveled over one billion kilometers and transported ten billion passengers.