New generation of trams rolls out in Brussels

The new vehicle design focus is on improved accessibility

Today, a new generation of trams rolled out onto the streets of Brussels. The new tram has improved accessibility, comfort and a new design inspired by Art Nouveau architecture. The city’s public transport company, the STIB ordered the improved model in 2020 and the first vehicle started service on the 51 line.

The public transport company ordered 90 to replace the older models, however, first, each one needs to be tested with a required running length of 1,000 kilometres before it can transport passengers.

Improvements

The new tram is available in a short version of 32 meters, offering 182 places including 47 seats, and in a long version of 43 meters, offering 256 places including 65 seats. Additionally, the design features wide doors and a low floor to accommodate people in wheelchairs.

The vehicle also has two multifunctional spaces for people in wheelchairs and travellers with pushchairs. Also, the so-called model TNG is equipped with manual ramps integrated into the floor, to help people get on and off, especially for stops that do not have adapted platforms yet.

The interior, on the other hand, has folding seats, large information screens showing public transport maps, indirect LED lighting and an efficient cooling system.

In terms of safety, the TNG also has some improvements, including the usual features like interior rearview mirrors and conventional rearview mirrors. Some of the improvements are a front-mounted camera to reduce the blind spot and an obstacle detection system.

Additionally, the front face of the tram has elements made of flexible material, intended to lessen shocks in the event of a collision, as well as an anti-derailment monitoring device.