It\u2019s official, Midland Metro\u2019s existing fleet of Urbos 3 trams are to be fitted with batteries following the signing of a contract between Centro and CAF. The groundbreaking \u2013 for the UK \u2013 deal will see the first tram move to Spain for the fitting of the batteries with the remaining 20 trams being dealt with at Wednesbury Depot.<\/p>\n
As we reported earlier this year Centro are planning to introduce sections of line on forthcoming extensions of Midland Metro without overhead wires (for both cost and aesthetic reasons) and to enable all trams to operate on these sections they are to be fitted with lithium ion batteries. These will be fitted on the tram roof and recharged by overhead lines along those parts of the route which retain them.<\/p>\n
James Aspinall, Managing Director of Centro, said: \u201cThis is an exciting new development for the Midland Metro as it will be the first tram fleet in the country to operate in this way. By upgrading these vehicles we are cementing the role of tram as an important means of public transport for the region.”<\/p>\n
The first section of line which will be built without overhead wires is the entirety of the Centenary Square extension (due to open in 2019) with the following other future extensions to see sections of battery operation:<\/p>\n
* Birmingham-Edgbaston extension from Centenary Square to Brindleyplace and through the underpass at Five Ways<\/p>\n
* Birmingham Eastside extension between Moor Street Queensway and Digbeth High Street stop including under the proposed HS2 station at Curzon Street<\/p>\n
* Wolverhampton City Centre extension between the bus station and railway station<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
It\u2019s official, Midland Metro\u2019s existing fleet of Urbos 3 trams are to be fitted with batteries following the signing of a contract between Centro and CAF. The groundbreaking \u2013 for the UK \u2013 deal will see the first tram move … Continue reading