The programme to replace the Bombardier built CR4000 trams which have been running on the London Tramlink network since services began in 2000 has begun with the official tender notice having been posted by Transport for London. With the trams reaching the end of their expected operational life – and their reliability having suffered in recent years – it has been known for sometime that they would need replacing and after much discussion in board meetings this is the confirmation that they do intend to get a new fleet in the coming years.
Transport for London are looking to procure at least 24 new trams (directly replacing the 24 CR4000s which were originally built, 23 of which remain nominally operation with only 2551 having been permanently withdrawn following the Sandilands accident) with options wanted to order up to a further 16 trams. Associated spares and equipment are also sought as part of the contract whilst a technical support and spares agreement is wanted with a term of 30 years.
The new trams should support improved safety features on the tram network, complying with RVAR 2010 legislation, improve crashworthiness of vehicles, improve passenger and driver experience, maintain and improve reliability of the fleet, contribute to TfL’s “Vision Zero” and reduce the ongoing economic and carbon cost of tram services.
Of note is that part of tender says that there should be an “option to order up to 12 option trams with no break in production, or between 8 and 16 option trams with a break in production”. This could well be one for the future with the Stadler trams potentially up for replacement at some point,or potentially an increase in capacity if that is deemed necessary.
Expressions of interest for the tender are to be received by 27th February 2024. It is then hoped that the first new trams may enter service by the end of 2028.
With the entry into service still expected to be over four years away this does mean that the CR4000s will need to solider on for some time. Any observers of Tramlink will note that there are delays noted on the TfL website regularly for tram shortages and so it could well be a long four years or so for commuters on the network.