Project Profile: Hódmezővásárhely-Szeged Tram-Train

The Hódmezővásárhely-Szeged tram-train is a pioneering rail transport system in Hungary, engineered to create a seamless link between the urban tram network of Hódmezővásárhely and the mainline railway to Szeged. This project integrates dual-mode rolling stock with significant infrastructure upgrades to provide a direct, high-frequency public transport service, serving as a model for regional-urban connectivity.

Technical Specifications

Route Engineering and Infrastructure

The project’s core civil engineering component was the construction of a 3.6 km single-track urban tram line within Hódmezővásárhely, establishing five new stations and integrating the system with the mainline at the Hódmezővásárhely Népkert railway station. A critical element was the comprehensive upgrade of the 22 km mainline railway between Szeged-Rókus and Hódmezővásárhely Népkert, which was reconstructed to permit an operational speed of 100 km/h. This phase included track renewal, selective track doubling for increased capacity, and the complete refurbishment of the Algyő Tisza Bridge. Station infrastructure at Algyő and Hódmezővásárhely Népkert was entirely rebuilt to modern standards, incorporating P+R facilities and enhanced accessibility. A new central traffic control system was installed to manage the complex interface between tram and mainline operations.

Rolling Stock and Propulsion Systems

The service is operated by a fleet of twelve Stadler Citylink hybrid tram-trains. These bi-directional vehicles are engineered for dual-mode operation, drawing power from 600V DC overhead lines on the urban tram network and utilizing two 390kW low-emission diesel power-packs for mainline travel. Each 37.2-meter vehicle features a low-floor, barrier-free design with a capacity for 216 passengers (92 seats). The design prioritizes accessibility with dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and bicycles. Onboard systems include modern passenger information displays, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a comprehensive CCTV security system, meeting contemporary standards for passenger comfort and safety.

Key Takeaways

• Model for Regional Integration: The project successfully demonstrates the viability of tram-train technology to bridge the gap between urban and regional rail networks, providing a one-seat journey that significantly enhances public transport’s competitiveness against private vehicles.
• Hybrid Funding and Collaboration: Its success relied on a strategic partnership model, combining national funding from entities like Nemzeti Infrastruktúra Fejlesztő (NIF) with substantial financial support from the European Union, managed through a consortium of specialized engineering and construction firms.
• Technological Synergy: The deployment of advanced dual-mode rolling stock combined with targeted infrastructure upgrades (track speed enhancement, modern signaling) created a highly efficient and sustainable transport solution, reducing journey times to under 40 minutes.

FAQ

What is the Hódmezővásárhely-Szeged Tram-Train?

The Hódmezővásárhely-Szeged Tram-Train is a public transport system in Hungary that connects the city centers of Szeged and Hódmezővásárhely. It uses hybrid vehicles that operate as an electric tram on city streets and as a diesel-powered train on the mainline railway, providing a direct, seamless journey without the need for transfers.

How long is the journey on the Szeged tram-train?

The total journey time between Hódmezővásárhely and Szeged on the tram-train is under 40 minutes. This efficient service significantly reduces travel time compared to previous transport options and improves connectivity between the two regional centers.