Škoda 28T Tramcar: A Case Study in Modern Tram Technology

This article explores the Škoda 28T tramcar, a significant example of modern light rail vehicle (LRV) design and engineering. The project, a €104.7 million contract awarded to Škoda Transportation in 2013, involved the delivery of 60 fully low-floor trams to Konya, Turkey. This case study will delve into the technical specifications, design philosophy, and operational advantages of the 28T, highlighting its contributions to sustainable and efficient urban transportation. The analysis will also briefly compare the Škoda bid with those of its competitors, examining the factors that contributed to Škoda’s success in securing this substantial contract. Ultimately, this article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Škoda 28T’s role in shaping the future of urban transit solutions, focusing on its innovative design features, cost-effectiveness, and overall impact on passenger experience.

Design and Features

The Škoda 28T builds upon the successful design of the 26T tram, initially developed for Miskolc, Hungary. A key design principle is the 100% low-floor configuration, achieved by placing the electrical equipment on the roof. This feature, along with a 330mm boarding edge, ensures convenient access for passengers of all abilities. The tram’s dimensions are notable: 32.52m in length and 2.55m in width, allowing for a significant passenger capacity of 364. The design incorporates modularity, adaptable to varying lengths, widths, gauges, seating configurations, and supply voltages. The body, constructed from welded steel and coated with anti-corrosion paint, ensures durability. The interior design, inspired by Islamic architectural motifs and the whirling dervishes of Konya, emphasizes passenger comfort and efficient movement within the multi-articulated vehicle layout. Noise reduction features include dampening rubber inserts in the wheel rims and optimized bogie design.

Technological Advancements and Safety

The 28T incorporates several cutting-edge technologies. Regenerative braking is a core feature, recovering energy during deceleration and feeding it back to the mains. This significantly reduces operating costs. When regenerative braking isn’t sufficient, excess energy is used for auxiliary systems, with any remaining energy dissipated through brake resistors. The electro-dynamic braking system is designed for automatic operation, even in the event of trolley voltage failure, ensuring reliable braking performance. A friction disk brake system serves as a backup for emergency situations, automatically engaging if needed, controlled by an electrical pressure unit. The tram also boasts multiple doors – four double-wing and two single-wing exterior sliding doors – for efficient passenger flow. Furthermore, each bogie is equipped with electromagnetic rail brakes, adding to the tram’s overall safety features. The 28T fully complies with the latest European safety standards.

Operational Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The 28T’s design prioritizes operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Regenerative braking, as mentioned earlier, leads to considerable energy savings. The low-floor design and convenient boarding features enhance passenger throughput and reduce dwell time at stops. The air-conditioning system is specifically adapted to the Turkish climate. The use of durable materials and efficient components reduces maintenance requirements and extends the lifespan of the vehicle. These factors contribute to lower lifecycle costs compared to older tram designs, making the 28T a financially viable solution for cities. The environmental benefits are apparent; decreased energy consumption minimizes a city’s carbon footprint.

Project Overview and Competitive Landscape

The Konya tram project, securing 60 units of the Škoda 28T, showcased Škoda Transportation’s competitive edge in the international market. Other significant bidders included Bombardier, Pesa, CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles), Astra Arad, and CNR Tangshan Railway, highlighting the intensity of competition in this sector. Škoda’s success can be attributed to a combination of factors: competitive pricing, technologically advanced features like regenerative braking, adherence to safety standards, and a design tailored to the specific needs and aesthetic preferences of Konya. This successful bid solidified Škoda’s reputation as a leading provider of modern light rail vehicles.

Conclusions

The Škoda 28T tram represents a significant advancement in light rail technology. Its design successfully integrates passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The project’s success in Konya demonstrates Škoda Transportation’s ability to deliver high-quality, technologically advanced LRVs that meet the specific needs of individual cities. The incorporation of regenerative braking, a 100% low-floor design, and advanced safety features establishes the 28T as a benchmark for modern tram systems. The modular design offers flexibility for future projects, adapting to various urban environments and operational requirements. The competitive bidding process, with participation from major international players, underscores the significance of the Konya project and the technical and commercial success achieved by Škoda. Ultimately, the Škoda 28T showcases a commitment to innovation and sustainability, offering a viable and appealing solution for improving urban public transport networks globally. The project highlights the importance of considering not only technical specifications but also the cultural context and aesthetic preferences of the deploying city in tram design and implementation. The successful delivery of this project reaffirms Škoda Transportation’s position as a leader in the LRV market.

Company Information:

• Škoda Transportation: A leading manufacturer of rolling stock, including trams, trains, and locomotives.
• Bombardier Transportation: A major global player in the rail industry, offering a wide range of rail solutions.
• Pesa Bydgoszcz: A Polish manufacturer of railway vehicles.
• CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles): A Spanish manufacturer of rail vehicles and infrastructure.
• Astra Arad: A Romanian manufacturer of railway vehicles.
• CNR Tangshan Railway Vehicles: A Chinese manufacturer of railway vehicles.