Transport for London has asked four companies to submit full bids to design and build a new fleet of trams for the London Trams system. They are looking for 24 trams to replace the fleet of original Bombardier CR4000s with the aim that they would start to enter service in the late 2020s – as long as funding for them can be secured.
There are no real surprises in the list of companies being asked to submit bids with Alstom Transport UK Limited, Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles S.A. (CAF), Hitachi Rail Limited and Stadler Rail Valencia S.A.U. all on the list. They have all pre-qualified in the process and can now proceed to the next stage of the formal procurement process.
TfL are looking for a modern fleet of trams which will offer a more comfortable and reliable service with features such as a redesigned interior, air conditioning, the latest audio and visual real-time travel information and mobile device charging points. There should also be a multi-use area that is designated primarily for wheelchair users but is also able to accommodate pushchairs and luggage when not in use.
Scott Haxton, TfL’s Director of Capital Delivery Infrastructure, said: “This invitation for tram manufacturers to submit bids for the design and manufacture of the next generation of trams on the London Trams network is a significant next step. Subject to funding, these trams will start to enter service in the late 2020s and will provide customers with more comfortable and reliable journeys for many years to come.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, added: “We welcome this positive news from TfL regarding a proposed new fleet of trams which will help support our borough’s regeneration. An improved and more reliable service will benefit our residents and everyone who visits and works in Croydon, as they commute around the borough for work and leisure.
“Croydon’s trams are a vital piece of infrastructure, connecting remote areas to our town centre. We look forward to seeing this proposed fleet introduced and hope to see longer-term investment secured for the system, providing improved transport links and a welcome boost to the regeneration of our town centre and our local economy.”
The award of the contract will be dependent on TfL securing a suitable funding package. They are continuing to discuss their capital funding requirements with the Government which would include fleet renewals such as this one.
If funding is found it will be for an initial 24 trams (to replace the CR4000s) with an option to extend the contract to build more trams which could end up being replacements for the Stadler Variobahn’s.