KVB orders 132 high-floor LRVs from Stadler

Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB) is set to significantly modernise its light rail fleet in the coming years and has awarded Stadler to build 132 high-floor light rail vehicles. The order is worth just under 700 million EUR, the first vehicles are scheduled for delivery in 2029.

The trams of the new type are precisely tailored to Köln network, and are being developed leveraging Stadler's expertise in trams and light rail vehicles. In Germany, Stadler high-floor LRVs operate, for example, in Stuttgart (DT8.12 to DT8.15) and at BoGeStra in Bochum. One of the special features is that two units can be easily coupled together. The order also includes 34 ten-metre-long intermediate modules that will enable the trams to be extended to around 70 m. In this configuration, they will offer space for up to 470 passengers, significantly exceeding the capacity of the previous vehicle series and allowing more efficient use of the infrastructure.

The driver's cab will offer excellent all-round visibility, an assistance system will warn of collisions and a rear-view mirror video system eliminates blind spots. The displays in the cab automatically adjust to the ambient brightness and the monitor for video surveillance can be integrated directly into the display. An integrated passenger counting system with evaluation software will support operational planning. Hybrid wheels with aluminium rim rings reduce both weight and driving noise.

The new LRVs also set new standards in the interior. Energy-saving air conditioning ensures a pleasant interior climate with high energy efficiency. Large 29-inch monitors provide up-to-date passenger information, while LED lighting ensures uniform and energy-efficient illumination. Wider aisles and a continuous passenger compartment will create a spacious feel and allow for a more even distribution of passengers, which facilitates faster boarding and alighting and reduces waiting times at stops. In their design, both companies consistently focus on state-of-the-art accessibility – from the choice of materials to the colour scheme – to ensure inclusive use for our passengers.

The new vehicles will be built for a service life of over 30 years. As part of a long-term partnership, Stadler will ensure the supply of spare parts and provide service and support, from preventive maintenance to technical advice.

The first ten trams and five connecting modules are scheduled for delivery in 2029 for pre-series operation. Batch delivery is scheduled from mid-2030 to the end of 2032. The new vehicles will gradually replace the existing Class 2200/2300 and 5100 trams and will be used on lines 4, 13 and 18.