Stadler to Supply 132 High-Floor Light Rail Vehicles for Cologne

Stadler has been commissioned to deliver 132 high-floor light rail vehicles for Cologne’s transport operator, Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB).

The order, which is worth just under 700 million EUR, will see the first ten of the new vehicles delivered in 2029 for pre-series operation, as well as continued maintenance and spare part supply from Stadler.

Tailor-made for Cologne’s light rail network; the new trains will be capable of being connected to form a continuous train via a quick-release coupling.

The order also includes the provision of 34 ten-metre-long intermediate modules to enable the trains to be extended to roughly 70 metres, which in turn will allow for a capacity of up to 470 passengers. The first five modules are expected for delivery in 2029.

Stefanie Haaks, KVB CEO, said:

The city council's approval of this important project gives us planning security. In view of a challenging budget situation, we are very grateful for the financial support, which sends a positive signal for the implementation of the mobility transition and strong public transport. Both our passengers and drivers can look forward to modern trams and a high level of comfort.

The vehicles will come equipped with an assistance system to warn of collisions, rear-view mirror video system, an integrated passenger counting system with evaluation software hybrid wheels with aluminium rings, air conditioning, large passenger information displays and wider aisles.

Jure Mikolčić, CEO Stadler Division Germany, said:

With the new high-floor light rail vehicles, we are joining forces with KVB to send a strong signal for the mobility of the future – comfortable, energy-efficient and ready for the challenges of tomorrow. The vehicles are tailor-made for Cologne and combine state-of-the-art technology with a flexible, modular design.

Series delivery of the vehicles is currently scheduled from mid-2030 to the end of 2032, with the new vehicles set to gradually replace the existing 2200/2300 and 5100 series trains and on lines 4, 13 and 18 from 2029 onwards.