Alstom Citadis in Besançon — the new tram is on the tracks

Keolis Besançon Mobilités has unveiled the first Alstom Citadis in Besançon at its depot. The five-section low-floor tram has already arrived and will undergo testing throughout the summer. It is expected to enter regular service in September. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

According to Alstom, the new tram consumes 25% less energy compared to the current Urbos 3 trams supplied by CAF. Maintenance costs are also projected to drop by 18%. With a length of 32.5 meters, each tram can accommodate up to 200 passengers.

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The manufacturer emphasizes that 95% of the components are recyclable, making Citadis one of the most sustainable models on the market.

Contract includes three French cities

Alstom signed the €78 million contract (excluding VAT) in 2023 to supply 22 Citadis trams to Besançon, Toulouse, and Brest. Besançon initially ordered five trams and exercised an option for three more in April. The full delivery under the base contract is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Citadis — a step toward greener public transport

Local authorities see the rollout of Alstom Citadis in Besançon as a key move toward sustainable urban mobility. The new trams combine high passenger capacity, improved energy efficiency, and minimal environmental impact, aligning with the latest standards for modern public transport systems.

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