One manufacturer, two cities, two new types of trams: just before Christmas, new TINA trams began operating in Rostock, and the first Stadler Tramlink vehicles began operating in Potsdam.
With the launch of the first TINA tram on 12 December 2025, Rostock has taken a significant step towards modernising its urban transport system. Following intensive test runs and technical approval, the first vehicle entered regular service on main lines 1 and 5, while two further vehicles will initially be used for training driving personnel. TINA, an acronym for ‘Totally Integrated Low-Floor Drive’, is 32 metres long and can accommodate 216 passengers, including 75 seats. The completely step-free interior ensures barrier-free entry and exit, while four multi-purpose areas for prams, bicycles or walkers and large panoramic windows create a spacious feeling.
The vehicles are equipped with modern bogies, which not only increase smoothness and ride comfort, but also reduce rail and wheel load. Driver assistance systems such as collision protection, video surveillance and cashless ticket machines increase safety and ease of use. In addition, the trams are equipped with USB ports, Wi-Fi and a digital passenger information system that will provide real-time information in the future. The RSAG transport company is so satisfied that a 30th vehicle has now been ordered from Stadler. This will gradually replace the old 6N1 (6NGTWDE) trams from the 1990s, 38 of which are still in service. Ten vehicles are being modernised at IFTEC in Leipzig for use until around 2036.
We reported on the delivery of the first TINA vehicle for Rostock at the following location:
TRAMLINK multi-articulated tram for Potsdam
In Potsdam, the first two of a total of 13 TRAMLINK trams ordered from Stadler entered regular service on 18 December 2025 following successful technical acceptance. With a length of 42 metres and a capacity of up to 246 passengers, including 74 seats, the new vehicles significantly outperform the previous Variobahn trams. Eight wide doors enable quick boarding and alighting, while the bright, step-free interior ensures a high level of comfort for all passengers. Multifunctional areas for prams and walkers, parent-child seats and wheelchair-accessible zones ensure accessibility.
The TRAMLINK trams feature an energy-optimised air conditioning system, LED door displays, a modern passenger information system and USB sockets. The innovative chassis design with continuous axles ensures smooth, comfortable journeys, while the vehicles are energy-efficient and easy to maintain. With the launch of this service, Potsdam is focusing on modern, sustainable mobility that both makes urban public transport more attractive and supports long-term fleet modernisation.
Potsdam’s first Tramlink has been presented in March 2025, shortly after delivery:
Comparison of the most important technical data between TINA in the version for Rostock and Tramlink Potsdam:
| Technical Parameter | TINA Rostock (Stadler) | Tramlink Potsdam (Stadler) |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Unidirectional tram, three modules | Unidirectional tram, five modules |
| Length | 32.3 m | 42.0 m |
| With | 2.65 m | 2.30 m |
| Height | 3.50 m | 3.61 m |
| Track width | 1,435 mm | 1,435 mm |
| Line voltage | 750 V DC | 750 V DC |
| Max. speed | 70 km/h | 70 km/h |
| Seats | 75 | 74 |
| Total capacity | 216 passengers | 246 passengers |
| Low-floor percentage | 100 % | 100 % |
| Entrance height | ca. 290 mm | ca. 300 mm |
| Number of doors | 4 Doppel-, 2 Einzeltüren | six double, two single doors |
| Multifunctional areas | existing | four |
| Specific parameters | compact design, new generation of bogies | high capacity, wide doors |
