Cottbus is focusing on the future: New generation of trams starts today!

Cottbus is focusing on the future: New generation of trams starts today!

Local transport in Cottbus has opened a new chapter, because today Cottbusverkehr GmbH is taking a significant step towards sustainable mobility with the commissioning of new trams. Managing director Ralf Thalmann emphasizes that these new vehicles are not only environmentally friendly, but also comfortable and barrier-free. In cooperation with Brandenburg an der Havel and Frankfurt (Oder), the procurement was successfully handled through a Europe-wide tender and optimally equipped with funding technology. Seven of a total of 22 new ForCity Plus lifts are already in trial operation.

The new trams measure an impressive 29 meters in length and, at 2.40 meters wide, are larger than many of their predecessors. They offer space for up to 158 passengers, including 61 fixed seats and 6 folding seats. The barrier-free access is particularly pleasing: two wheelchair spaces, a multi-purpose area and a ground-level entrance with extendable ramps enable everyone to get in comfortably. The equipment is also impressive: air conditioning, a modern audio system and a digital passenger information system are standard equipment on the new trains. This modernization is planned as a gradual replacement of the Tatra railways, which will initially remain in operation in parallel.

Financing and collaborations

The first seven vehicles were financed from the city of Cottbus's own funds and from the possibilities provided by the public transport law of the state of Brandenburg. The Investment Bank of the State of Brandenburg is supporting the expansion with a generous funding rate of 90% for the additional 15 trams, with the funds being made available through the Coal Regions Investment Act. Sparkasse Spree-Neiße also plays an important role as a lender in this process.

Minister Detlef Tabbert underlines the need for modern vehicles and the associated infrastructure. He praises the municipal cooperation that makes such groundbreaking projects possible. Mayor Tobias Schick draws a historical comparison and sees today as just as important as the introduction of the first tram in 1903. “This is a point at which we can look to the future,” says Schick, thereby giving special importance to the development of local transport in Cottbus.

Technological progress

Dirk Jakisch from Cottbusverkehr focuses on the technological progress that the new Skoda models bring with them. These modern trams are not only a benefit for passenger comfort, but also a step towards a greener future for local public transport in the region. With a clear commitment to environmental friendliness, the Cottbus tram will continue to play a crucial role in local mobility.

This new local transport offering not only increases the city's attractiveness, but also gives a positive boost to the quality of life of its citizens. The new tram lines will soon be running on the tracks of the city of Cottbus and are therefore part of a comprehensive goal: promoting sustainable and barrier-free mobility for everyone.