Poznań receives huge support from the EU for the purchase of trams

We have granted PLN 175 million from the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate and Environment 2021–2027 programme for the implementation of a project titled “Rozwój czystego transportu miejskiego – inwestycje w tabor tramwajowy MPK Poznań Sp. z o.o.” (Development of a clean urban transport – investment in a tram rolling stock of MPK Poznań Sp. z o.o.). Those funds will be used to purchase 30 modern tram units.

By the end of 2028, MPK Poznań will purchase 30 new, low-floor, one-way trams, as well as one towing unit. Total cost of the project is estimated to be nearly PLN 355 million, of which PLN 175 million will come from the EU funds. The financing comes from the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate and Environment 2021–2027 programme, and the investment will be realised under the “FENX.03.01 Transport miejski” (Public Transport) action.

Each of the tram units will be 30 metres long and able to serve approx. 240 people. They will replace the time-worn old rolling stock, and will serve passengers both on the existing, as well as new lines. It is estimated that, in 2029, nearly 16.4 million passengers will use them, which is equal to the population of Zimbabwe (data.worldbank.org, 2024, https://data360.worldbank.org/en/indicator/WB_WDI_SP_POP_TOTL)

Modern trams, which MPK Poznań is planning to buy, will be equipped with an electric, zero-emission drive with AC electric motors, which means that the vehicles will not exhaust fumes, and instead will rely on modern, energy-saving drive units. The braking energy recuperation system will allow to recover energy produced during breaking and transfer it back to the traction network, making tram units more cost-efficient and environmentally-friendly.

Vehicles will also be adapted to technological autonomous drive while powered by a battery unit, which will allow them to continue working without direct connection to the traction network – e.g., in case of power failure or in regions without proper network. This solution will improve operational flexibility and increase the level of innovation of the rolling stock.

Moreover, tram units will also be equipped with an integrated, computerised HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system. With automatic regulation of temperature and air quality inside the vehicle, passengers will be able to travel comfortably, regardless of season or weather conditions.

All units will also be adapted to meet the needs of people with limited mobility, including the elderly, people with disabilities, as well as parents and guardians with baby strollers. For ease of travel, each tram unit will also be equipped with a wheelchair ramp, and dedicated spaces for people with limited mobility will be designated inside. But that’s not all – a special algorithm will allow to alleviate jolting when the vehicle starts to move or brakes.

All of the above will also contribute to another goal, which is the reduction of CO2 emissions within the Poznań area, as well as increase in popularity of public transport. The project is also consistent with the city’s development strategy, which includes investments not only in a modern rolling stock, but also the construction and renovation of tram lines. One of the key investments in this scope will be the construction of a line along Ratajczaka Street, which is also co-financed from the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate and Environment.