RET inaugurates Rotterdam's CITADIS

RET is extending the service and modernizing the image of
Rotterdams tram network with the CITADIS trams. They are
destined for the citys three new Tram-Plus lines, which
serve suburban areas not covered by the city's underground.

Mr. Clayden said that CITADIS stood for comfort, reliability
and speed and that RET aimed to adapt the quality of public
transportation continuously to the demands of modern times. By
purchasing the 60 new CITADIS trams, RET was fulfilling 
this promise.

Mr. Opstelten decared that the new tram fitted in perfectly
with the image of Rotterdam and that he expected that all
Rotterdam citizens would enjoy the "trendy" tram, not only when
they travelled in the CITADIS but when they saw the tram passing
by as well, he added.

The first five of the 60 CITADIS trams for RET entered
commercial service immediately after the inauguration
ceremony.

The CITADIS tramcars, which feature four double doors on one
side, can carry 180 passengers. The ranges modularity
keeps initial and maintenance costs low, allows broad
customization and makes for rapid delivery.

Comfort and easy access for passengers is afforded by the
CITADIS design, with its full low floors, quiet operation, large
windows and a generous interior.

ALSTOM trams have been sold in more than 25 cities around the
world. Paris, Barcelona, Rotterdam, Dublin and Melbourne have
chosen CITADIS. Among the 475 CITADIS trams already sold, the 150
already in service have carried more than 150 million passengers
and have traversed more than 10 million kilometers.

With more than 35 product lines and a presence in more than
60 countries, ALSTOM's Transport sector offers cutting-edge
products and services for new rolling stock, signaling, and
electrical and mechanical infrastructure as well as maintenance
and rehabilitation services to four distinct types of
customers: urban transit authorities and operators; intercity
passenger rail operators and rolling stock owners; rail freight
operators; and intercity railway infrastructure owners.
ALSTOM's Transport sector, with sales of 5.1 billion in
financial year 2002-2003, is among the world's leading
suppliers to the railway industry.

Press information:
Helen Connolly

Tel. +33 (0)1 41 66 91 43

helen.connolly@transport.alstom.com