The official introduction of the first Flexity tram marks a new phase in the modernisation of Graz’s urban rail network. The new generation of vehicles, manufactured by Alstom, entered regular passenger service on 27 May 2026 and is expected to replace a significant portion of the city’s existing tram fleet over the coming years.

The first vehicle, named “Theodora”, commemorates Theodora Acham, who, together with Inge Steiner, became one of Graz’s first female tram drivers in 1988. From a technical perspective, however, the focus lies on the capabilities of the new rolling stock. At 33.81 metres in length and approximately 2.30 metres in width, the five-section, fully low-floor Flexity trams are the largest vehicles ever introduced to the Graz network. Operating on Graz’s standard gauge (1,435 mm) tram system, each vehicle is equipped with six powered axles and modern AC traction equipment. The trams have a maximum operating speed of 70 km/h and can accommodate up to 200 passengers, including 60 seated and 140 standing passengers, representing a substantial increase in capacity compared with the Variobahn and Cityrunner vehicles currently in service.

A key objective of the project was to improve accessibility. The vehicles feature a fully low-floor interior throughout the passenger saloon, wide double doors and a boarding height of just 215 millimetres. These characteristics significantly ease access for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as those travelling with prams, wheelchairs or bicycles. Dedicated multi-purpose areas, air-conditioning, energy-efficient LED lighting and modern passenger information systems further enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency.

The introduction of the new fleet followed an extensive testing and certification programme. The vehicles completed approximately 1,800 kilometres of test runs, supplemented by around 25 overnight trial operations. Additional assessments included braking performance, climate-control functionality, safety systems, route compatibility and structure-gauge clearance tests. Only after the successful completion of these procedures and the relevant regulatory approvals were the trams authorised for passenger service.

At present, eight Flexity vehicles have been delivered to Graz. They are being deployed progressively on the city’s heavily used Routes 4 and 7. By mid-2028, a total of 31 vehicles of this type are scheduled to enter service. The city is also planning the procurement of a further 24 units, with financing expected to be supported in part through loans provided by the European Investment Bank.

In addition to increasing capacity, the new fleet is expected to deliver operational benefits through improved energy efficiency, regenerative braking technology and reduced maintenance requirements compared with older vehicle generations. Alongside the introduction of the new trams, Graz Linien is also upgrading its passenger information infrastructure. A new digital announcement system has been launched in parallel with the Flexity programme, enabling faster and more flexible updates to stop announcements and operational information.

Through these investments, Graz aims to strengthen the capacity, accessibility and technological resilience of its public transport network while preparing for the demands of a growing urban population. The Flexity programme represents one of the most significant fleet renewal projects undertaken by the city’s tram operator in recent decades and forms a key component of Graz’s long-term sustainable mobility strategy.