USA: The first two three-car trams have entered regular service on the MAX light rail network.
The launch followed the S700 vehicles, TriMet Type 6, covering more than 2,400 km of trial run. All five MAX lines are to see 30 such units in total in the coming months.
TriMet Type 6 trams in operation in Portland. Source: KATU
It is reported that each tram can accommodate 168 passengers, with 62 of them seated. Compared to the previous similar Type 5 series, supplied by Siemens Mobility in 2014–2015, the new LRVs are bidirectional, fitted with a predictive diagnostic system, and have better HVAC and lightning equipment. The rolling stock is to replace Type 1 cars, produced by Bombardier Transportation. The units have been in service since the line’s opening in 1986.
Siemens Mobility is also implementing a contract to supply 45 S700 trams to Sacramento. The vehicles are assembled at a facility located in the city.
