The first TINA tram has arrived in Rostock, marking a significant milestone for the city’s public transport system. TINA, which stands for “Total Integrated Low-Floor Drive,” represents an innovative and passenger-friendly concept developed by Swiss rail vehicle manufacturer Stadler. The first of 29 trams in this new generation was unveiled today to local press, city representatives, employees, and other guests.
The TINA trams feature state-of-the-art, barrier-free designs, environmentally friendly air conditioning, WiFi, and spacious interiors. Rostocker Straßenbahn AG (RSAG) is now preparing the tram for commissioning, with plans to introduce it into regular service by the end of 2025.
“Our passengers can look forward to state-of-the-art barrier-free trams with environmentally friendly air conditioning, WiFi, and a spacious interior. We are now starting with the further measures for commissioning in the Rostock route network so that we can send the first tram into regular service by the end of the year,” Yvette Hartmann and Jan Bleis, RSAG Board Members, said.
Commissioning and future plans for TINA
The first TINA tram is now entering the commissioning phase, a necessary step for new vehicles in Germany. This phase includes extensive testing, brake tests, route trips, and driver training. The tram is expected to enter regular passenger service by the end of 2025, contributing to Rostock’s climate-friendly transport transition.
Two additional TINA trams will arrive at the RSAG depot by mid-2025, with the remaining vehicles delivered by mid-2027. These new trams will gradually replace the older 6N1 models, which have been in service since 1994–1996.
“With the new trams, RSAG is taking another step towards the future of local transport. The state government is supporting this investment in a modern, user-friendly, and sustainable transport system as part of the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania mobility initiative with almost ten million euros. Attractive local public transport is a central component of the mobility transition. With modern vehicles, improved infrastructure, and comprehensive services across the country, we are making local public transport even more attractive and fit for the future,” Ines Jesse, State Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, Tourism, and Labour, said.
Enhanced passenger experience
The TINA trams are designed with passenger comfort in mind. Each 32-metre-long, 2.65-metre-wide tram can accommodate 216 passengers, including 75 seated. The fully air-conditioned, barrier-free vehicles feature four spacious multi-purpose areas for strollers and bicycles, panoramic windows, USB charging ports, and modern passenger information systems. WiFi and video surveillance systems are also included, alongside cashless ticket machines.
Innovative features such as four specially designed bogies for smooth running and advanced driver assistance systems, including collision protection, further enhance safety and efficiency.
RSAG has ordered 29 TINA trams from Stadler, with a total order value of approximately EUR 100 million. The state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is supporting the purchase with EUR 9.45 million in funding.
Rostocker Straßenbahn AG operates six tram lines in Rostock, covering around 3.1 million tram kilometres annually. The new TINA trams will primarily serve main lines 1 and 5, further modernising the city’s public transport network.
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