Geneva, Switzerland--Ten years ago, Geneva became the first city to introduce low floor light rail vehicles in response to comfort and environmental considerations. Since then, cities all over the world, with Europe in the lead, have phased in various versions of the low floor vehicles to replace aging fleets; some, like the more than 100 vehicles circulating in Vienna, run a mere six inches off the ground.
The new, passenger-friendly design has brought widespread satisfaction while also benefiting operators by reducing boarding times and improving operating economies. But there have been some "teething" problems, mainly centered on noise levels, energy consumption, and the time required getting the new systems up and running.
A second generation of LRVs now coming on the market is said to have solved the residual problems by incorporating lessons learned in the operation of the earlier models. Noise levels have been reduced; lightweight materials and weight-saving construction methods are being employed; drive technology has been improved; and access to component parts has been eased for maintenance operations.
Among the first of the new generation vehicle models is the Combino produced by Siemens, of which 73 units have been ordered for Potsdam, Germany, with an option for 20 more. The first units are scheduled to enter service next month. Their design incorporates experience gained by LRVs up to now, under various operating conditions.
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