Project Profile: Songjiang Tram Light Rail Network, Shanghai

The Songjiang Tram Light Rail Network is a 31km, 46-station modern light rail system enhancing public transit capacity in Shanghai’s Songjiang District. Developed across two primary phases and now fully operational, the network utilizes a fleet of 30 Alstom Citadis low-floor Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) and is managed by the Shanghai Keolis public-private partnership, serving as a critical component of the district’s integrated transport strategy.

Technical Specifications

The Songjiang Tram network comprises two distinct lines, T1 and T2, forming a comprehensive 31km system with 46 stations. Line T2 was the first to be commissioned, opening in late 2018, followed by the longer Line T1. The network is designed for high-frequency service, with headways of 10-15 minutes, adjustable to meet peak demand. Intermodal connectivity is a core design principle, with seamless transfers to local bus services at all stations.

The rolling stock consists of 30 Alstom Citadis-based low-floor “Silkworm” Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs). Each 33-meter, five-section bidirectional vehicle offers seating for 56 passengers and a total capacity of 300. The fleet was manufactured by Shanghai Alstom Transport Company (SATCO), a joint venture between Alstom and Shanghai Electric Group. While final assembly was local, critical components including traction systems, bogies, power modules, and the Train Control and Monitoring System (TCMS) were supplied by Alstom’s facilities in France, ensuring adherence to international quality and safety standards.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Public-Private Partnership: The operational model, managed by Shanghai Keolis—a joint venture between Keolis Group (49%) and Shanghai Shentong Metro Group (51%)—successfully merges international operational expertise with deep local transport network knowledge.
• Phased Implementation for Scalability: By developing the network in two distinct phases (Line T2 followed by Line T1), the project authority was able to manage risk, apply learnings from the initial rollout, and scale the system effectively to meet regional demand.
• Advanced Rolling Stock and Localized Manufacturing: The procurement of Alstom’s modern Citadis LRVs provided a high-capacity, accessible transit solution. The manufacturing arrangement through the SATCO joint venture demonstrates a successful model for technology transfer and localizing the production of advanced railway systems.

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