by Justin Di Giulio
Image: Melbourne legacy tram fleet in front of Flinders St station, image credit: Linda Xu
Melbourne, is home to the world's largest urban tram network. This network is not just about transport, it represents the city’s commitment to mobility solutions that are safe, inclusive, and environmentally friendly.
Image: Next Generation Tram, Source: Department of Transport and Planning.
Background
An article appeared in The Age Melbourne’s next-gen trams designed for impact
Kieran Rooney October 23, 2023 describing how Melbourne's new G-class trams, set to be integrated into the city's public transport network, and how they have been specifically designed with safety and efficiency in mind, addressing the alarming frequency of tram-car collisions, which average three per day. The reimagined trams feature a flatter nose for better visibility and ease of repair, an in-built battery system to save 20% on electricity, and a capacity to carry twice as many passengers as their predecessors. These enhancements are not only proactive measures in response to past issues but also anticipate Melbourne's future growth and transport demands.
Responding to Safety and Accessibility Needs
Alstom, secured the largest light rail contract in Australia, valued at approximately €700 million (~$1.17 billion AUD), to deliver 100 Flexity low-floor Next Generation Trams (NGTs) for Melbourne. What stands out about this development is not just the sheer size of the contract, but the emphasis on safety and accessibility.
The G class trams set to be introduced come with multiple safety features:
A design that adheres to the latest crashworthiness standards.
An optimised cab/front design that not only enhances driver sightlines but also ensures pedestrian safety.
Larger cab windows to improve driver visibility.
Under-run protection, offering an added layer of safety.
These trams are also designed keeping in mind accessibility for all, with a low-floor structure and additional doors to accommodate users of wheelchairs, prams and mobility scooters.
Balancing Passenger Demand and Sustainable Mobility
Ling Fang, President of Asia-Pacific Region, Alstom, mentioned the importance of addressing "the balance in passenger demand growth and the need for sustainable mobility outcomes." As Melbourne's population continues to grow, so does the demand for efficient public transport. But it's equally important that this transport system leaves a minimal carbon footprint, a value that's at the core of Melbourne's ethos.
Image: Flexity E Class Tram, source: Alstom
History and Local Impact
Alstom's relationship with Melbourne isn't new. With over 141 Flexity and Citadis trams, 106 X’trapolis suburban trains, and 95 Vlocity regional trains, they have been a significant player in Melbourne's public transport landscape. This new contract reaffirms Melbourne's trust in Alstom to deliver high-quality mobility solutions.
However, this isn’t merely a financial transaction for the trams. With a commitment to local construction, as 65% of the NGTs will be manufactured at Alstom’s Dandenong facility. The maintenance contract goes a step further, promising 85% local content. This local focus is not just about creating a product tailored to Melbourne's unique needs - but also about boosting the local economy and strengthening Victoria's stature as a railway manufacturing hub.
The Future of Light Rail Rollingstock and Infrastructure?
The iconic tram network of Melbourne, is on the edge of a transformative journey through rollingstock innovation. The trend of prioritising trams in traffic via signal control is a refreshing take on optimising tram travel, ensuring they gain precedence, while the integration of pre-emption aims to reduce tram traffic delays to a minimal. While trialled, this is yet to be fully exploited in Melbourne.
Adding to this safety momentum is the cutting-edge collision warning system developed by Bosch, which employs AI to bolster tram safety. Already making waves in Europe, this state-of-the-art driver assistance system, set to be installed by CAF Rail for the first time in Australia on the Parramatta Light Rail network, represents a confluence of technology and safety, exemplifying an opportunity for the future of tram travel in Melbourne. This is technology hasn't been incorporated into the new Melbourne G class trams but represents a future possibility once learnings come from NSW.
Image: South Yarra Tram Stop, credit: Marcus Wong.
Stop-spacing is also being redefined, with modern LRTs favouring gaps of 600m to 800m between stops, promising higher average speeds and more efficient service. Transitioning the traditional short stopping tram network into a light rail system where LRVs get to a higher speed between stops improving commute times. This is something which is being progressively rolled-out across Melbourne.
Trams are also advancing in their safety mechanisms; in Melbourne segregated tracks are increasingly occuring, evolving to ensure a safer and more reliable system with enhanced frequency and capacity. This merger creates a dual benefit, improved safety but also increased priority.
Another innovation occuring in Melbourne is the merging of aesthetics with functionality, innovative pedestrianisation designs, like contrasting paving and iconic architecture, are stepping in to address pedestrian safety concerns. Improving aesthetics can improve civic pride and perceptions of safety. This is occuring with the roll-out of new and upgraded tram super-stops. Councils are often improving the urban area around major stops.
Enhancing the commuter experience is central to these innovations. Modern trams are rapidly adopting comprehensive passenger information systems that provide real-time apps, accessible data both onboard and at tram stops. Adopting improved ticketing such as mobile payment systems such as apps and transitions to mobile payments.
Moreover, the design ethos is embracing both accessibility and aesthetics, with platforms undergoing design transformations to facilitate easy access and tram corridors being revamped to become inviting walking spaces. Furthermore, the role of trams as catalysts for urban development is becoming increasingly evident, paving the way for medium-density linear development.
A Look Ahead
For passengers, these trams mean a smoother, safer, and more accessible ride. For Melbourne, it signifies progress, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability and safety. It also reinforces Melbourne as the Tram Capital of Australia.
While it's noteworthy that Alstom has secured this significant contract, the real triumph is Melbourne's forward-thinking approach to urban mobility. As the trams roll out in the coming years, they will symbolise a city in motion, always moving towards a safer and more inclusive future.
The next generation of trams, with their innovative features and commitment to safety, are set to make Melbourne's roads safer and its journeys more enjoyable. As the city gears up to embrace this new era of public transport, it’s clear that the future of mobility in Melbourne is on the right track.