Siemens supplies turnkey tram system for Doha (Qatar) featuring technotrans components

Siemens Infrastructure & Cities has won a contract to build a turnkey tram system in the Qatari capital Doha. From autumn 2015, there will be 19 trams in service on a catenary-free route covering 11.5 kilometres, with 25 stops. They will be equipped with a Siemens energy storage system that is recharged while the trams are at the stops, for however briefly. In addition, the recovery of braking energy means up to 30 percent of the energy expended can be captured, for conversion into motion again. The cars are moreover designed to withstand the region’s extreme climatic conditions. A high-performance air conditioning system and special insulation on the roof provide protection against the sun’s rays and the high ambient temperatures.

Siemens and technotrans have now reached agreement on the development of specialised cooling elements for the innovative trams’ energy stores. As well as being able to offer special expertise, another point in technotrans’ favour was its worldwide sales and service network, which means constant technical support is available for the vehicles.

“The project is a major priority for technotrans, because sustainable mobility concepts that use energy more efficiently and cut CO2 emissions are issues that will become even more important over the next few years,” remarked Henry Brickenkamp, Spokesperson of the Board of Management of technotrans AG. “We are proud to be Siemens’ partner in exploring this area further.”

Siemens will be supplying 19 trams based on the Avenio platform, the most advanced tram system in the world; each tram comprises three cars and can carry a maximum of 239 passengers. The energy store for optimised energy consumption and the catenary-free operating principle make the Avenio the standard-bearer of sustainable local rail transport.