Skoda’s New ForCity Plus 52T Trams Transform Prague Transit

The Skoda ForCity Plus 52T trams are already transporting passengers in the city of Prague. This is a historic step in the modernization of the transport sector in the Czech Republic. The manufactured trams successfully completed over 40,000 kilometers during testing before entering service.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The delivery of Skoda ForCity Plus 52T trams improves the position of the Skoda Group

Since November 3rd, seven trams belonging to this family have been in service on line No. 12. At the end of the year, the intention is to increase the current fleet to 20 trams. The trams will be part of the process to renew the fleet that has been undertaking the city’s rail renewals due to energy efficiency and technology advancements by the city of Prague.

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The tram has a capacity to transport 243 passengers with 70 seated. The tram measures 32 meters and has five sections with low flooring. The tram also has two fully rotating and two semi-rotating bogies.

For the first time, the Škoda Group has introduced a mechanical braking solution rather than the previously used hydraulic solution. The requirement in the tender has resulted in the creation of a new solution that is more maintainable and reliable.

Modern trams increase comfort and safety

The buses are equipped with passenger counting technology, frontal collision warning components, and new info displays. These technologies ensure safer travel and greater operator control and insight.

The framework contract between the Škoda Group and DPP provides for the supply of a maximum 200 trams; 40 are to be delivered to the capital by the end of 2026. The trams are priced at about €3.3 million each (VAT excluded). The move is part of DPP’s efforts to make transport more environmentally friendly since tram transport results in lower CO₂ production.

Experts state that the Škoda Group is further improving its market share within the European light rail transport sector. The city of Prague offers an example of sustainable transportation infrastructure development among European capitals.

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