Transtech Oy’s ForCity Smart Artic Tram Delivery to Helsinki

This article explores the significant expansion of Helsinki’s tram fleet with the addition of ten ForCity Smart Artic trams from Transtech Oy, a Škoda Transportation unit. The €30 million contract builds upon a pre-existing order for 60 trams, highlighting the success of the ForCity Smart Artic model and its contribution to Helsinki’s public transportation strategy. We will delve into the reasons behind Helsinki’s continued investment in this particular tram model, examining its technical specifications, operational efficiency, passenger appeal, and its role in supporting the city’s growth and commitment to sustainable urban mobility. Furthermore, we will analyze the broader implications of this deal for Transtech Oy, its parent company Škoda Transportation, and the future of tram technology in Finland and beyond.

Helsinki’s Expanding Tram Network

Helsinki’s decision to purchase an additional ten ForCity Smart Artic trams underscores its commitment to expanding and improving its tram network. The city has already integrated 48 of these trams into its system since 2013, experiencing positive feedback from both passengers and operators. This repeat order, bringing the total number of ForCity Smart Artic trams in Helsinki to 58, demonstrates the tram’s proven reliability and effectiveness in meeting the demands of a growing city. The success of the ForCity Smart Artic in Helsinki contributes to the overall strategic plan to shift towards more sustainable and efficient public transportation, reducing reliance on private vehicles and improving air quality.

The ForCity Smart Artic Tram: Technical Specifications and Performance

The ForCity Smart Artic is a 27.4m-long, three-section, unidirectional tram with a 1,000mm gauge. Its fully low-floor design ensures barrier-free access for wheelchair users and passengers with prams, enhancing inclusivity and accessibility. A key feature is its all-wheel drive system, combined with a robust chassis and axle design, which makes it exceptionally effective even in challenging Finnish weather conditions. This reliability is crucial for maintaining consistent service throughout the year, ensuring dependable public transportation for Helsinki residents. The energy efficiency of the tram is another significant factor in its appeal, contributing to lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact.

Transtech Oy and Škoda Transportation: A Successful Partnership

The contract award reinforces the successful partnership between Helsinki City Transport (HKL) and Transtech Oy, a subsidiary of Škoda Transportation. This collaboration highlights Transtech’s established position as a leading rolling stock manufacturer in the Nordic region. The €30 million contract for ten trams contributes significantly to Transtech’s overall sales, which reportedly totaled approximately €120 million. The ongoing success in the Finnish market, including substantial contracts for double-deck passenger coaches with VR Group (Finnish railways), underscores Transtech’s expertise and its ability to meet the specific needs of the Finnish railway and tram systems.

Market Impact and Future Prospects

This deal significantly impacts both Transtech Oy and the broader tram market. The continued success of the ForCity Smart Artic in Helsinki serves as a strong testament to its design, performance, and suitability for challenging climates. This positive feedback could attract further orders from other cities facing similar operational challenges, potentially expanding Transtech’s international market share. The success of this model also encourages further investment in research and development of similar tram technologies, potentially leading to even more efficient and sustainable public transport solutions in the future. For Helsinki, the expansion of its tram fleet contributes to its long-term strategy of enhancing public transportation and addressing the challenges of urban growth and sustainability.

Conclusion

The delivery of ten additional ForCity Smart Artic trams to Helsinki by Transtech Oy signifies a significant milestone in both the city’s public transport development and Transtech’s market success. The deal builds on a pre-existing relationship, demonstrating the proven reliability and efficiency of the ForCity Smart Artic in demanding conditions. Its features, including full low-floor access, all-wheel drive, and energy efficiency, directly address the needs of a growing city committed to sustainable transport. The success in Helsinki serves as a strong case study for other cities considering similar investments, promoting the wider adoption of modern, efficient tram technology. For Transtech Oy and its parent company Škoda Transportation, the contract reinforces their position as key players in the European rolling stock market and demonstrates their ability to deliver high-quality, reliable trams that meet the specific needs of their clients. The overall impact underscores the increasing importance of efficient and accessible public transport in urban planning and the continued evolution of tram technology to meet future demands.