NETHERLANDS: The first Siemens Avenio tram for Den Haag entered passenger operation on November 2 on Route 2.
Test running has also started on Route 11, the next route to be operated by Avenios. They will eventually enter service on routes 1, 9, 15 and 17. In preparation for the 100% low-floor trams, the city is undertaking a programme of track renewal and platform replacement.
Operator HTM ordered 40 Avenio trams in 2011 and exercised an option for 20 more in 2013 at a cost of €2·58m each. The trams are being built in Siemens’ Wien factory and deliveries are due to be completed in 2016.
The trams are 35 m long and 2 550 mm wide, with 70 seats and capacity for 168 standing passengers at 4/m². Each tram has two multifunction areas, and one single and four double doors on each side. The trams weigh 49 tonnes, and six 120 kW motors give a maximum speed of 70 km/h.
