Siemens take on Qatar’s tram system

Siemens has secured a major contract from Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development to supply the energy-efficient tram system in Doha.

Under the turnkey, three-digit-million US dollar contract, Siemens will supply 19 three-unit Avenio trams designed to withstand climatic conditions in the Gulf state and to be equipped with the Sitras hybrid energy storage (HES) system. Trams with hybrid energy storage systems can operate without an overhead contact line and are especially energy-efficient and environment-friendly, consuming up to 30% less energy per year and producing less CO2 emission than vehicles without such systems.

Engineer Saad Al Muhannadi, Qatar Foundation vice president of Capital Projects and Facilities Management, said: “All of our new constructions are designed with the environment in mind, and this innovative transport scheme further demonstrates this commitment. Ultimately, our aim is to make the Qatar Foundation site a car-free zone.”

The Siemens Avenio trams will operate without overhead contact lines and receive electric power at the 25 stations along the 11.5 kilometer-route within Qatar Foundation.

By Charmaine Fernz, 31 July 2012, Tuesday 5:26 PM