New Battery-Powered Tramway in Saudi Arabia
The battery-powered tramway would provide access to several UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Rendering courtesy Alstom
Alstom’s $540 Million Contract for Tramway Construction
Alstom has won a $540 million contract to construct the world’s longest battery-powered tramway in Saudi Arabia. The catenary-free, 22.4-km project will feature 20 Citadis B battery trams manufactured by the French rolling stock manufacturer, and 17 new stations.
Comprehensive System Design and Maintenance Services
Alstom’s contract includes designing a comprehensive system for the tram project as well as integrating, installing, testing and commissioning its battery-powered system. The firm will deliver power supply, signaling, communication and depot equipment as well as providing full tram maintenance for at least 10 years.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
The contract, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, was awarded in early January by the Royal Commission for Al-Ula, a government agency with a mandate to preserve and develop the 2,000-year-old archaeological and historical site of Al-Ula in the northwest area of the country.
Enhancing Access to Historical Districts
When completed, the tramway will open access to five major historical districts such as the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Al-Ula Old Town, Dadan, Jabal Ikmah, Nabataean Horizon, and Hegra Historical City.
Innovative Predictive Maintenance Technology
The firm says it will use its 2014-introduced predictive maintenance tool, HealthHub, that enables it to “monitor the health of trains, infrastructure and signaling assets using advanced data analytics to predict their remaining useful life.”
Local Design and Manufacturing of Trams
The 20 trams will be designed and manufactured at Alstom’s France-based production sites.
Saudi Arabia’s Environmental Focus and History with Alstom
“This ambitious project aims to deliver unique transit options for residents and tourists, with innovative, climate-adapted trams,” said Alstom in a statement. The firm has a 70-year history of infrastructure work in Saudi Arabia. Mohammed Khalil, Alstom managing director in Saudi Arabia, said the project “incorporates many key elements including Saudi Arabia’s focus on environmental stewardship.”
Alstom’s Role in the Riyadh Metro Project
Alstom also supplied 69 trains and an Urbalis signaling system for the Riyadh Metro’s lines 3,4, 5 and 6. Vision 2030 includes development of tramways and other rail systems in the country
Strategic Development of Tramways for Tourism and Commuting
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan includes developing of tramways and other rail systems for easy access to the country’s major tourism, cultural, agricultural, and residential sites.