Siemens picked to build Qatar tram system

Siemens has won a contract to build a tram system on the campus of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development in Doha, it was announced on Monday.

The transport system, which is part of plans to create a car-free site, will serve 25 stations.

When completed, the Avenio trams will run on 11.5km of track without the need for any overhead contact lines.

They will be equipped with the Sitras Hybrid Energy Storage system from Siemens, with energy being supplied at the tram stops. The system will become operational in autumn 2015, a statement said.

Siemens will supply 19 double-articulated trams to Qatar Foundation, each with the capacity to carry up to 239 passengers, and will be specially equipped to cope with the country's climatic conditions.

As well as an air-conditioning system, special sun shades on the roof will protect the electrical equipment from heat.

Saad Al Muhannadi, Qatar Foundation's vice president of Capital Projects and Facilities Management, said: "This agreement provides yet more evidence that Qatar Foundation is helping to spearhead the nation's drive towards environmental sustainability.

"Ultimately, our aim is to make the Qatar Foundation site a car-free zone and, with the introduction of the new tram system, we are well on our way to achieving this goal."

Hans-Jorg Grundmann, CEO of Siemens Rail Systems, added: "Siemens is setting new standards in tram and light rail technology with its Avenio platform.

"Its energy storage system for optimising the energy balance and its operation without overhead contact lines are further aspects that go toward making the Avenio a model system for sustainable, rail-based mass transit as well as the most modern tram in the world."