Is there a compelling reason why Sydney plans to use five-section Citadis trams in coupled sets when Alstom makes 55-metre, nine-section, 379-passenger Citadises, such as those now being delivered to Dublin?

Given my amusement at the lengthy "ghost running" on the new Gold Coast extension, I am laughing hysterically over the ghost-running of the new Dublin line having started five months ago for its planned opening next month :-O

david mcl

http://www.metro-report.com/news/news-by-region/europe/single-view/view/nine-section-tram-arrives-in-dublin.html http://www.metro-report.com/news/news-by-region/europe/single-view/view/nine-section-tram-arrives-in-dublin.html

From Metro Report:

IRELAND: The first of seven nine-section Citadis trams has arrived in Dublin from Alstom’s La Rochelle factory. The vehicle was shipped to the port of Rosslare, from where it was transported by road to Luas’ Sandyford Depot on November 16.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland placed a €36·5m order for the trams in November 2015. The 54·6 m long vehicles with capacity for 379 passengers are due to be delivered in time for the opening of the Luas Cross City extension of the Green Line, which is planned for December 9.

The €368m project will extend the route by 5·9 km from St Stephen’s Green to Cabra, adding 13 stops. Test running started in June with two Citadis trams from the existing fleet.