RUSSIA: PK Transportnye Systemy’s Vityaz-M tram has started test running on the Metroelektrotrans fast tram line in Volgograd. The three-section Type 71-931M tram, was unveiled at the Innoprom trade fair earlier this year.

The 100% low-floor tram is 27·5 m long with capacity for 260 passengers, including 60 seated, and six doors. It is equipped with air-conditioning, CCTV and a passenger information system.

Each of the six axles is driven by a 72 kW traction motor, enabling acceleration to 40 km/h in 14 sec and a maximum speed of 75 km/h. Movement is monitored by GPS and Glonass positioning systems. Volgograd is planning to purchase up to 25 trams but has yet to select a supplier.