Spanish manufacturer CAF has signed a framework agreement with Malaysian construction company Gamuda Berhard to supply up to 23 Urbos trams for the Xidong and Keelung lines in New Taipei City, managed by the Rapid Transit Systems Department.
The contract, which could be worth close to 200 million euros, also includes spare parts, depot equipment and a driving simulator.
This project represents CAF’s second major achievement in Taiwan after the catenary-free tram line in Kaohsiung, a world pioneer in the absence of contact wire along its entire route, with accumulators recharging at stops. The construction company Gamuda will lead the integral execution, reinforcing the local authorities’ confidence in the technological and industrial capacity of both companies.
New Taipei City, with almost four million inhabitants, is developing an ambitious transport infrastructure to meet growing demand. The Xizhi-Donghu (Xidong) line will be elevated, some 6 km long, with six stations, and incorporate a depot and rolling stock.
The Urbos trams, which are over 55 metres long and have nine aluminium modules, will be accessible and have a capacity of up to 615 passengers. Their technological design is adapted to the climate and high population density.