After several recent openings of tram-train lines in the Greater Paris area, today, 5 April 2024, saw another route extension in the classic tram network: the heavily frequented line T3b now runs beyond its previous terminus at Porte d’Asnières for a further seven stations to Porte Dauphine. There it connects to metro line 2, and en route to metro line 3 in Porte de Champerret and metro line 1 and the RER suburban railway lines A and C in Neuilly-Porte Maillot (see: https://www.urbanrail.net/eu/fr/paris/paris-map-giant.png ). The new section, which is double-tracked throughout on its own trackbed and mostly laid as a grass track, is 3.2 km long in total. With a journey time of 12 minutes, there is a tram every 8 minutes during the day and every 4 minutes during rush hour. The 73 seven-section Alstom Citadis 402 with a length of 43.7 metres and a width of 2.65 metres are used on the two partial lines T3a and T3b. Nine cars were reordered from Alstom for the extension.
The first completed tramcar for the T1 line was also presented: Alstom is supplying 37 Citadis X05 multiple units worth around 130 million euros to replace the current multiple units, which are up to 30 years old and were used to open the very first modern tram in the Paris region. They have now reached the end of their useful service life, offer too little capacity and no longer meet current requirements. In addition, an optional tranche of 83 trams has been agreed in order to strengthen the future service and cover the demand associated with the route extension.
With a length of 33 metres and a width of 2.40 m, the new trams offer 15% more passenger space compared to the current configuration. To make it easier for passengers to board and alight, they will also have six double doors with a side length of 1.30 metres at the ends.
To improve passenger comfort, the trams are air-conditioned and equipped with an efficient passenger information system with 18 screens distributed throughout the train, which represents an unprecedented level of passenger information in a tramway. An interior and exterior light signature and acoustic information round off this dynamic information system. With 40 USB sockets, the trams also offer the option of charging mobile devices. Finally, a video protection system ensures the safety of travellers.
Even if they have more services such as air conditioning or dynamic passenger information, these trams will reduce energy consumption by at least 30% compared to the current equipment thanks to a reduction in weight, new motorisation with better efficiency, effective control of climate comfort, 100% LED lighting etc. .
Line T1 of the Île-de-France tramway network started service in 1992, marking the great return of the tramway to the Paris region after an absence of 55 years. Today it connects Asnières-sur-Seine with Noisy-le-Sec station.
We reported on the delivery of new vehicles here:
https://www.urban-transport-magazine.com/en/final-decision-the-design-of-paris-new-tram/
