New Metro automatic sliding step revealed

A new automatic sliding step which will be fitted to the new trains for the Tyne and Wear Metro has been unveiled as construction of the first trains continues in Switzerland. The step will transform accessibility on the network by eliminating the gap between the train and platform edge at every door on the trains.

The sliding step will automatically deploy from beneath the door sill every time the new Metro train pulls into a station, closing the gap between the platform. It then automatically retracts before the doors close and the train pulls away.

Sarah McManus, Nexus New Fleet Project Manager, said: “It was fantastic to see the new automatic sliding step in operation. This piece of technology is a key feature of the new Metro train fleet that will transform accessibility for thousands of customers. The sliding step works by providing seamless boarding from platform to train. It removes the gap between the train and the edges of the Metro platform when it deploys. We got the chance to inspect the sliding step and the new train doors on what is called a first article inspection of the production line over in Germany. Bode have an excellent track record and will be supplying the boarding system to Stadler as final assembly of our new trains progresses. We are delighted to share the first images of the Metro’s sliding step and we looking forward to seeing it in operation again when the first new train arrives in our region at the end of the year.”

The sliding steps are being made by a company called Bode Die Tur, who specialise in the development and production of electronic door and boarding systems at their factory in the city of Kassel in Hessen, central Germany. They are also making the cab doors which have also recently been seen being fitted to the first bodyshells under construction at Stadler’s plant in Switzerland.

46 new trains are being built, with the first due to be delivered at the end of this year with the aim of it entering service in summer 2023.

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