On 03/06/2021 13:01, Greg Sutherland wrote:
>

> https://www.railexpress.com.au/the-next-generation-of-trams/

>

That article does not give much detail about the new trams aside from the number and the projected cost.

At a webinar this week Ben Phyland, the Head of Rolling Stock Development with Victoria's Department of Transport provided more detail of the project and the trams.

* The 100 new trams to be ordered will replace 130 Z and A class trams
- meaning that at least another 100 will be required to retire the Bs.
* The new trams peak current demand must not be more than 600A (Es
peak at 1200A).  This to be achieved by using on-board storage to
smooth the spikes on demand.  It is the intention that this will
reduce the need for extra sub-stations. It’s not practical to
retrofit batteries or 'super capacitors' to existing trams – too
many differences in structure and controls.  Batteries typically add
200 to 500kg to a tram.  On board storage is aimed at reducing spike
demand from the power system and is not intended to allow 'trolley
wire free' operations - although it could for short distances.
* The new trams will be approximately the length of a B and  will thus
fit in current depots plus the new depot to be built on a parcel of
land in the west - close to purchase.  All existing depots will be
retained. There is a possibility of apartment development above some
depots at some stage in the future.
* “Trackless Trams” are not being considered as part of this project.
* New trams will have some form of collision avoidance technology –
but it is hard to implement in shared traffic lanes.
* Fixed bogie designs are not precluded from proposals from the two
potential suppliers (Alstom and CAF/UGL) for Melbourne’s  new tram.
* Vic would like to see National Standards for trams and related
equipment adopted to allow sharing of parts etc and thus get lower
bulk prices.

Mal Rowe who expects the new depot to be within his 'tiny tram world'