Bordeaux’s 130th Citadis Tram: A Success Story

This article examines the successful long-term partnership between Alstom, a leading rolling stock manufacturer, and Bordeaux Métropole, highlighting the delivery of the 130th Citadis tram to the Bordeaux light rail system. The ongoing success of this project serves as a compelling case study in the planning, implementation, and long-term operation of a large-scale urban transit system. We will analyze the characteristics of the Citadis trams, the scope of the Bordeaux network, the collaborative manufacturing process employed by Alstom, and the environmental considerations inherent in this project. This analysis will provide insights into the key factors contributing to the success of this significant public transportation initiative, offering valuable lessons for future urban transit projects worldwide.

The Citadis Tram and its Features

The Alstom Citadis tram, a mainstay of numerous urban transit systems globally, is characterized by its modular design, allowing for customization to meet specific operational requirements. The Bordeaux Métropole fleet comprises both 44-meter and 33-meter-long vehicles, offering seating capacity ranging from 218 to 300 passengers. Key features include full low-floor access for improved accessibility, air conditioning for passenger comfort, and a comprehensive video protection system enhancing security. The trams also incorporate audio-visual passenger information systems, ensuring efficient communication and ease of navigation within the network. Crucially, the Citadis trams are designed with a high degree of recyclability (approximately 98%), demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Bordeaux Métropole Tram Network

Bordeaux Métropole’s light rail network is one of the largest in France, encompassing four lines extending over 77 kilometers (km). A notable feature is the extensive use of the Alstom-developed APS (Alimentation par le Sol) ground-level power supply system, spanning over 35 km of the network. This innovative technology provides a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional overhead lines, minimizing visual impact and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the urban landscape. The network serves approximately 100 million passengers annually, demonstrating its vital role in the city’s transportation infrastructure and highlighting the demand for efficient and reliable public transport.

Alstom’s Collaborative Manufacturing Process

The production of the Citadis trams for Bordeaux Métropole showcases Alstom’s efficient and collaborative manufacturing approach. Seven of Alstom’s French sites participated in the project, each contributing specialized expertise and manufacturing capabilities. The La Rochelle site handled the design and assembly, while other sites were responsible for key components such as engines (Ornans), bogies (Le Creusot), traction systems (Tarbes), onboard electronics (Villeurbanne), the APS ground power system (Vitrolles), and the initial design (Saint-Ouen). This geographically dispersed yet highly integrated production process underscores Alstom’s ability to leverage its extensive network of facilities to deliver large-scale transit projects efficiently.

Environmental Sustainability and Long-Term Partnerships

The project highlights the increasing importance of environmental considerations in urban transit planning. The high recyclability rate of the Citadis trams directly contributes to minimizing the environmental footprint of the light rail system. The adoption of APS technology further reduces the overall environmental impact by eliminating the need for overhead lines. The long-standing partnership between Alstom and Bordeaux Métropole, spanning over two decades, exemplifies the benefits of collaborative, long-term planning in developing sustainable and efficient public transportation solutions. This sustained relationship allows for ongoing adaptation and improvement, ensuring the continued relevance and effectiveness of the system.

Conclusions

The delivery of the 130th Citadis tram to Bordeaux Métropole marks a significant milestone in a highly successful long-term partnership between Alstom and the city. The project’s success is attributable to several key factors: the advanced features of the Citadis tram, catering to passenger needs and environmental concerns; the comprehensive and efficient nature of the Bordeaux Métropole tram network, serving a large ridership; Alstom’s effective and collaborative manufacturing process, harnessing its extensive network of specialized facilities; and the enduring commitment to environmental sustainability, evidenced by the trams’ high recyclability and the use of APS technology. This case study offers valuable insights for urban transit planning worldwide, underscoring the importance of robust long-term partnerships, sustainable design considerations, and efficient manufacturing processes in delivering successful and environmentally responsible public transportation solutions. The project demonstrates that through strategic collaboration and innovative technology, cities can effectively address the challenges of sustainable urban mobility, enhancing the quality of life for their citizens. The ongoing success of the Bordeaux Métropole tram system serves as a testament to the value of thoughtful planning and the potential of light rail to shape the future of urban transport.