The project to fit the entire fleet of Blackpool Tramway Flexity2 trams with ODAS equipment is stepping up with 006 now having the cameras for this system fitted at both ends (previously it had only been treated at one end) and 008 also joining the ranks of those so fitted. Meanwhile, testing of drivers to use the system is taking place ahead of its full introduction.
As a quick reminder, ODAS is an obstacle detection system that should improve safety along Blackpool Promenade with it able to detect obstacles in the way and then bringing the tram to a gentle stop with the aim of stopping any serious collisions.
A number of trams have already been fitted with the equipment (001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 009, 010, 012, 013, 014, 015, 016, 017) and you can now add 006 and 008 to this list after it received the cameras at its second end following on from their installation at the other end earlier this year.
008 entered service for the first time with the cameras on Friday 15th March.
Of the trams not listed above 007 is reported to have the cameras fitted but hasn’t yet returned to service after its incident with a Range Rover earlier this year. 005 is out of service at the moment and is wired but doesn’t have cameras fitted and 011 and 018 have also yet to see the equipment installed.
Training of the equipment is underway in earnest and recently a couple of trams have been out on the tramway training drivers. There is currently a planned introduction date into service on 29th March 2024 (Easter so in time for the traditional start to the season).
006 with ODAS cameras in service at North Pier. (Photograph by Michael Morton, 7th March 2024)
008 approaches North Pier showing off its camera. (Photograph by Michael Morton, 15th March 2024)