Barcelona Expands Tram Network with Alstom’s Catenary-Free Technology, Pioneering Sustainable Urban Mobility

Alstom’s APS catenary-free technology makes Spanish debut on Barcelona’s tramway

(IN BRIEF) Barcelona has launched a new two-kilometer extension to its tramway network, implementing Alstom’s APS technology for the first time in Spain. This innovative catenary-free system uses a ground-based power rail that activates only under the tram, allowing for a safer, more integrated urban design without overhead lines. The extension can carry an additional 24,000 passengers daily, which could reduce city center traffic by around 2,000 cars. This project represents a key phase in connecting the city’s two tram networks, furthering intermodality with metro and suburban lines, and supporting Barcelona’s vision for sustainable, accessible urban mobility with enhanced pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

(PRESS RELEASE) BARCELONA, 11-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ —  Alstom (EPA: ALO), a French multinational rolling stock manufacturer and leader in sustainable and green mobility solutions, announces that Barcelona, a city committed to sustainable and accessible urban mobility, is celebrating the commercial launch of a new tramway extension incorporating Alstom’s advanced catenary-free technology, APS, marking the system’s first use in Spain. Designed to bolster eco-friendly transit options, this two-kilometer extension is expected to accommodate an additional 24,000 passengers daily, potentially reducing city center traffic by approximately 2,000 cars. This initiative forms a core part of Barcelona’s larger strategy for promoting green and inclusive transportation solutions.

Alstom, a key player in global rail innovation, has spearheaded the development and deployment of this dynamic ground-based feeding system. Unlike traditional catenary systems, APS operates with a discreet third conductor rail, eliminating overhead lines and enhancing the tram’s integration within Barcelona’s urban landscape. The system is engineered to activate only when the tram passes over, ensuring pedestrian and road-user safety. Notably, APS maintains tram autonomy under various conditions, including extreme weather and traffic disruptions.

To enable seamless operation with APS, Alstom has adapted 18 Citadis trams already in Barcelona’s fleet. The teams based in Madrid and Barcelona managed both the APS infrastructure and tram modifications, making the new power supply system compatible with existing rolling stock. This technology is already in use across 11 cities globally, supporting over 370 trams daily on more than 150 kilometers of track, underscoring its reliability and broad adaptability.

The extension project represents the first stage of a broader endeavor to connect Barcelona’s two tram networks, Trambaix and Trambesòs. Spanning 3.9 kilometers and incorporating six new stops, the completed connection will enhance the city’s public transport intermodality by linking trams to the metro and suburban train services. Additionally, this project integrates new pedestrian spaces, bike lanes, and green areas, further embedding sustainability in urban design.

Barcelona’s tramway, which commenced operations in 2004, consists of two independent systems connecting the city with surrounding areas. Together, they comprise 29.22 kilometers, 56 stops, and a fleet of 41 Citadis trams, serving more than 30 million passengers annually with high user satisfaction. The trams, manufactured and maintained by Alstom in Barcelona, reinforce the company’s strong industrial and technological commitment to Spain’s transportation sector.

Alstom Spain’s footprint extends across the country with a workforce of over 3,200, contributing significantly to Spain’s economic and industrial landscape. Its local facilities in Barcelona and the Basque Country manufacture rolling stock and propulsion systems, while Madrid hosts technological hubs for safety, signaling, and digital mobility innovations. Alstom remains a major player in Spain’s rail industry, with one in three trains running in the country originating from the company’s factories.

About Alstom
Alstom commits to contribute to a low carbon future by developing and promoting innovative and sustainable transportation solutions that people enjoy riding. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, Alstom offers its diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. With its presence in 64 countries and a talent base of over 84,700 people from 184 nationalities, the company focuses its design, innovation, and project management skills to where mobility solutions are needed most. Listed in France, Alstom generated revenues of €17.6 billion for the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2024.
For more information, please visit www.alstom.com.

Contacts Press:

Alstom in Spain
Irma AGUADO – Tel.: +34 686 677 104
irma.aguado@alstomgroup.com

Daniel LARENA – Tel.: +34 649 631 242
daniel.larena@alstomgroup.com

SOURCE: Alstom