The Lichtbahn

The future needs light 

We recorded a continuous increase in passenger numbers in public transport from 2014 to 2018. 

We expect the demand of public transport services to increase further for Jena in future. This expectation is based on the city's structurally good set-up, the positive forecast regarding its numbers of residents, its economic power, and the large-scale investments that are currently made in Jena. The expected increase in public transport demand also results from social trends, technical innovations, and the need to reduce traffic-related pollutant and noise emissions. This means that trams in particular will play an even greater role than before, as they are used by two-thirds of all passengers. New trams are supposed to help us with the major goal of continuously offering attractive and efficient local transport in Jena.

You see: the future needs light - Jena needs the tram that brings light: the Lichtbahn.

The metre-gauge trams from Stadler are designed to meet the needs of both the city of Jena and our passengers. The order for the trams includes two different vehicle lengths: 16 vehicles are seven-section vehicles with a length of 42 metres. There are four spaces for wheelchair users in the three multifunctional areas. Likewise, there is space for buggies and bicycles. Eight vehicles are designed as five-section trams with a vehicle length of 32 metres.

This shorter version has two multifunctional areas with four wheelchair spaces. The low-floor vehicles are equipped with five or six doors per side. The modern customer information system is visible from every seat. The customised design improves accessibility for persons with reduced mobility and guarantees safety and comfort for passengers and drivers alike.

September 15, 2021 - The presentation

On 15 September 2021, we presented the customised design of our Lichtbahn to the public. The design forms the connection between our perception and the technology of the vehicle.

We connect generations.

Fahrzeugdaten: Lichtbahn 42 Meter/32 Meter Länge

 

emoji_flagsMilestones

  • September 2021: Design launch Lichtbahn
  • November 2021: Start construction works infrastructure
  • December 2021: Start structural work Lichtbahn in Valencia
  • May 2023: Delivery first Lichtbahn
  • Spring/Summer 2023: Start test mode
  • Autumn 2023: Start regular operation on line 5
Die Lichtbahn - wir verbinden Generationen

September 15, 2021 - The presentation

On 15 September 2021, we presented the customised design of our Lichtbahn to the public. The design forms the connection between our perception and the technology of the vehicle.

We connect generations.

emoji_flagsMilestones

  • September 2021: Design launch Lichtbahn
  • November 2021: Start construction works infrastructure
  • December 2021: Start structural work Lichtbahn in Valencia
  • May 2023: Delivery first Lichtbahn
  • Spring/Summer 2023: Start test mode
  • Autumn 2023: Start regular operation on line 5

 Gallery

Do you want to know more about the interior design of the Lichtbahn?

Then it is worth visiting our blog where you can find a post with 5 facts about the interior design of the vehicle.

Go to blog article

FAQ

The Jena route network and the depot with its workshops have clearly defined capacities. This is why the older models are gradually taken out of service when the new trams are procured.

The first trams are scheduled to arrive in Jena in the first quarter of 2023 and go into operation around the middle of the year. After that, further deliveries will follow.

Due to the procurement of longer and wider vehicles, there are also new requirements for the depot. For example, the tram workshop will be extended to be able to carry out vehicle maintenance, repair, and cleaning on the longer and wider trams. Roof work stands and work pits will have to be adapted, too.

Komplett barrierefrei, mit 100 % Niederflur
Extra breite Wagen für eine komplette Ausnutzung des Lichtraumprofils
Sitze aus Holz mit gewölbter Form für breitere Durchgänge
Einhaltung der neuen Normen für Passantenschutz und Sichtbarkeit
 

Arrival of the Lichtbahn in Jena

The Lichtbahn arrived at the depot of the Jena local transport in Jena-Burau on the night of 5 May 2023.

Jena TV accompanied this arrivaland  summarised the whole event in a report.

Click here for the video