Tampere Starts Training Drivers for Extra‑long 47‑metre Tram Ahead of Pirkkala–Linnainmaa Line
Tampere has begun seven weeks of driver training runs for a new 47‑metre tram, with practice sessions held Monday–Thursday between 04:00 and 22:00.
Tampere has started seven weeks of training runs for drivers of its new 47‑metre tram, with practice sessions held Monday to Thursday between 04:00 and 22:00, YLE reports. The extra‑long vehicle is 10 metres longer than current trams and can carry up to 345 passengers, 81 more than before. Drivers must adapt how they anticipate curves and stopping, says driver Antti Ilomäki.
Testing began in June and included full‑load simulations using sandbags. The tram’s computer systems constantly adjust braking and power to match track geometry.
Škoda Transtech built the 10‑metre extension in Kajaani. Eleven more modules will be delivered from the end of the year, and Tampere has also ordered seven brand‑new long trams.
The expansion costs about €63 million. By August 2028 the city aims to have 19 extended trams and 16 shorter ones, when the Pirkkala–Linnainmaa line is scheduled to begin service.
The runs follow the city's stop‑extension programme and the first modules returned from Kajaani as the city prepares for full service.
Earlier coverage
Catch the full story over at YLE
