Knorr-Bremse and Hitachi Rail signed a systems supply contract for 30 new light rail vehicles, with an option for a further 40 units.
Under the contract, Knorr-Bremse will supply train manufacturer braking, entrance and HVAC systems for the vehicles to operate Turin tram network.
Knorr-Bremse will supply hydraulic braking systems featuring the new SysControl (ESRA EVO) electronic brake control with a newly developed Ethernet TRDP, the train real time data protocol interface, which works on a redundant Ethernet train network. Enhanced sanding systems optimise wheel–rail adhesion in adverse weather conditions, while dual–channel hydraulic control units for the trailer bogie help maximise brake performance. Even the brake calipers have been adapted to the challenging steering characteristics of the new bogie platform. The contract also includes the supply of electromagnetic track brakes with an innovative specific independent suspension and bumper system that allows the light rail vehicles to brake safely and rapidly in traffic.
Under the systems supply contract, IFE, a subsidiary of Knorr-Bremse will also be supplying energy-efficient RL2-e2 sliding plug doors that help to optimise passenger flows during boarding and alighting. For enhanced driver and passenger comfort in all seasons, whatever the weather, each LRV will also be equipped with one driver’s cab HVAC unit and two roof-mounted units supplied by Merak, Knorr-Bremse’s integrated climate control solution subsidiary. “This new supply agreement marks a further milestone in our collaboration with Hitachi Rail S.p.A. and we are very pleased to support our customer with our latest generation of technologies.” Simone Mantero, Managing Director of Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems Italia said.
Running on Turin’s existing tram network, the LRVs will connect different suburbs and the city center. Knorr-Bremse has already supplied braking systems for tram in many Italian cities, and the project also offers an excellent opportunity for Knorr-Bremse to strengthen its position on the Italian railway market and, in particular, in the mass transport sector.
The new trams will be operated by GTT, the Turin public transport company and will contribute to more reliable and cleaner urban transport by enabling faster and more efficient connections between many of the suburbs of the north Italian city and downtown Turin. In May, Hitachi Rail Italy signed a framework agreement to deliver 70 new trams. The first order includes the delivery of 30 LRVs starting this autumn.
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