New Flexity Classic trams in Magdeburg

Magdeburger Verkehrsbetriebe (MVB) are modernising their fleet: Alstom’s new Flexity Classic trams are to gradually replace the older TATRA high-floor vehicles and some of the NGT8D low-floor trams from the 1990s. A total of 35 four-part Alstom vehicles are to be delivered to run on all lines. By Carsten Stapke

The Flexity Classic vehicles are 38.2 metres long – around eight metres longer than the previous trams – and hold up to 249 passengers. A low-floor element of 70 %, spacious multi-purpose areas, air conditioning along with state-of-the-art passenger information systems enhance comfort and accessibility. The new trams are also quieter and more energy-efficient than their predecessors.

All bogies on the vehicles – three motor bogies and two trailer bogies are equipped with our braking system which fulfils prevailing safety and operational standards and ensures reliable and controlled operation.

The passive electro-hydraulic brake is a spring-applied brake. Full braking force is applied in original state and pressure build-up is required in the hydraulic circuit for brake release. Hydraulic auxiliary release of the actuators follows via a further independent hydraulic circuit.

There is also a hand pump should the auxiliary release equipment not be available for technical reasons. A mechanical release option allows opening of the actuators for workshop purposes. 

The motor bogies have large floating HYS 357 spring-applied brake calipers that engage a shaft brake disc between the wheels. A HZY K100-DPR  hydraulic unit supplies continuous pressure for the operating circuit, the HEY-C brake control unit ensures continuous control of the hydraulic unit and error monitoring. 

On the outside of each wheel, the trailer bogies have flange brake discs on which HYS 202 actuators engage. The four actuators are continuously controlled by a HZY K100-PR hydraulic unit with external pressure accumulator.

By introducing the Flexity Classic trams, MVB is not only modernising the fleet, they are also ensuring greater comfort, safety and passenger friendliness in local public transport. Our braking system is part of this new generation and helps keep operations run smoothly and safely every day.