The First Tram Factory Headed to Konya

Škoda Transportation unveiled the first tram in Turkey, which was produced for the Turkish city of Konya. New modern 100% low-floor tram 28T is now ready for commissioning in Konya. Škoda will deliver a total of sixty complete trams to Konya.

“Our company was able to produce the first tram, designed for the rapidly growing Turkish market, half a year after signing the contract. It gives us confirmation that we can develop and produce advanced technology vehicles, which also meet all the latest standards, in a very short time” says Josef Bernard, Škoda Transportation CEO.

“Our readiness to deliver the first tram in a record time is a clear indication of our performance and Skoda’s commitment to provide technologically advanced, competitive pricing and fast deliveries to our customers. We are very pleased to have met the Konya Municipality’s requirements and looking forward to other challenges, given Turkey’s dynamic and fast growth, and committed investments in the development of rail transportation and urban public transport,” said Zal Shahbaz, Sr. Vice President of Sales at Škoda Transportation.

The modern bidirectional 28T tram combines Skoda’s experience, proven quality and features used in suburban units, metro and other trams. “Two vehicles for Konya can be linked together like a train, have higher strength and are equipped with automatic coupler for easy connection. Due to the planned operation in the 4.5 km long tunnel, the vehicle is constructed as an underground tram, like a light metro. For this reason, there are also materials used that meet higher fire safety,” says Jaroslav Kulhánek, chief engineer of the project.

The fully low-floor vehicle can hold up to 364 passengers. Easy entry and exit for all passengers, including persons with reduced mobility and baby carriage. “Operating in severe climate conditions also increased the need for air conditioning, which is adapted to the changing climatic zone in Turkey. In connection with this, it was also necessary to redesign the entire ceiling,” notes project manager Václav Petr.
The tram has five sections and is 32.5 meters long. “The tram has especially a unique design, whereby the sources of inspiration were the motives of Islamic architecture and the global uniqueness of Konya – Whirling Dervishes. A completely different approach is also used for interior lighting. Passengers can also enjoy the built-in Wi-Fi, and many other settings,” says Jaroslav Kulhánek.

All propulsion systems, including inverters, auxiliary converters and traction motors are supplied by Škoda Electric, with many past references in Turkey for other trams and particularly the new generation of electric locomotives for Turkish Railways, TCDD, Hyundai Rotem as the main contractor.

Source : Skoda