UK: Following positive passenger feedback from trials on a single Metrolink tram, on December 16 Transport for Greater Manchester confirmed a £1·7m deal for the roll-out of free wi-fi on all 94 trams, 20 city centre shuttle buses and all new trams entering service within the next two years.
The wi-fi equipment is to be supplied by Icomera, with installation to be completed in spring 2015. The project is backed by TfGM, Manchester and Salford city councils and the government’s Broadband Delivery UK.
TfGM said it would be the first fleet-wide tram wi-fi roll-out in England. ‘We live in a digital age and people want to make the best use of their travelling time. Quick and simple access to digital technology is key to this’, said Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM Committee.
Dave Palmer, Managing Director of Icomera UK, said ‘the adaptive nature of our solution will ensure it keeps pace with newer technologies as they become available, maintaining a state-of-the-art network for TfGM’s passengers.’
