Travelling safely in The Hague: General inspections at HTM

Trams have been a defining feature of The Hague's cityscape for more than 160 years. The Haagsche Tramweg-Maatschappij (HTM) started operating as early as 25 June 1864. Nowadays, the network covers around 105 kilometres of standard gauge (1,435 mm), and twelve lines connect the city centre with the suburbs and surrounding areas. By Wadim Tietz

The fleet includes the tried-and-tested GTL articulated vehicle, RandstadRail's RegioCitadis vehicles, modern Siemens Avenio trams and the new Stadler TINA trams, delivery of which began in 2025. Our brake system is installed in various vehicle types listed above and it significantly contributes to the high level of operational safety in The Hague's network.

HTM regularly performs comprehensive general inspections to ensure the safety, availability and longevity of its vehicles.

The brake systems of two tram types are being overhauled in parallel at this time: the first-series Citadis is currently undergoing its second general overhaul, covering a total of 56 vehicle sets, while the work on the Avenio trams began in November 2025 and covers 65 vehicle sets.

HANNING & KAHL is handling the entire general overhaul for both types. This includes equipment repairs in Oerlinghausen and professional installation directly into the trams by our specialists on site in The Hague as well as the flushing of the hydraulic lines and commissioning of the brake system according to manufacturer specifications. One vehicle set is being dealt with per month – for both the Avenio and Citadis trams – to ensure the fleet remains operational and meets the highest safety standards at all times.