Six million kilometers for the first wireless tramway in the world
Six million kilometers for the first wireless tramway in the world
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Since Bordeauxs Citadis trams went into operation at the end of 2003, they have covered more than six million kilometres using the APS wireless power supply system , invented and developed by Alstom Transport. The Communauté Urbaine de Bordeaux (CUB), which transports around 200,000 passengers on its three tram lines every day, was the first metropolitan area in the world to opt for this technology on 14 of the networks 44 kilometres. The APS availability rate on the three lines is over 99%. Angers, Reims and Orléans subsequently chose APS technology in 2006, followed by Dubai in 2008.
APS is a totally innovative solution and is exclusive to Alstom. It is a power supply system without overhead lines that enables the tram to travel wirelessly over any distance, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the urban environment. The tram is supplied with power via a rail embedded in the track. The energy transmitted is then captured by two collector slippers located at the centre of the tramset. To ensure total safety for pedestrians, the charging of the conductor segments is only triggered when they are covered by the tram. In addition to giving an identical performance to that of a conventional tram, for example in terms of speed, the APS system also preserves the urban environment and the heritage of historic city centres. It is a relevant solution to cross zones that might not otherwise have been accessible. It is also compatible with a variety of ground coverings and is easy to extend for the development of a line or network.
About Alstom Transport
With sustainable transport in mind, Alstom Transport develops and offers the most complete range of systems, equipment and services on the rail market. Alstom Transport can manage an entire transport system, from rolling stock to signalling and infrastructure, and offers turnkey solutions. In 2007-2008, Alstom Transport's turnover was 5.5 billion and its orders increased by 39% over the previous financial year. Alstom Transport is present in over 60 countries and has 26,000 employees. The company recruited 4,000 people worldwide in 2007, including 1,500 engineers and managers.