On August 8, Hyundai Rotem announced that the first set of tram vehicles arrived at Gery Light Station in Edmonton, Canada, marking a significant milestone in the Edmonton tram project.
The newly arrived tram is composed of seven modules, forming a single trainset, and represents the initial batch of a contract worth 218.8 billion won (approximately USD 200 million) signed in 2021. This tram will be deployed on the new "Valley Line West" route, which connects downtown Edmonton to the western districts. The vehicle will undergo approximately 2,000 kilometers of test runs before its official operation and is scheduled for full-scale delivery by 2027. Hyundai Rotem plans to sequentially supply all vehicles starting with this initial batch.
The supplied vehicle is a bidirectional, low-floor tram designed to operate at speeds of up to 80 km/h. Considering Edmonton’s harsh winter climate, the tram is engineered to ensure stable operation even at temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius.
Features inside the tram include a temperature sensing system that maintains optimal indoor climate, and the vehicle body is made from materials capable of withstanding low-temperature impacts. The exterior features red and white LED indicators inspired by the Canadian flag, enhancing visibility and safety during nighttime operation.
Hyundai Rotem has built extensive experience by supplying trams to cities such as İzmir and Antalya in Turkey, as well as Warsaw, Poland. Additionally, the company has been involved in South Korea's first hydrogen electric tram pilot project, acquiring full technological capabilities in vehicle manufacturing, test runs, track systems, signaling, and charging infrastructure.
A company representative stated, “Having successfully delivered driverless trains to Canada previously, we are committed to ensuring that this tram will be a safe and convenient transportation option for Edmonton citizens, and we will carry out the project with full responsibility.”
