Cobra (tram)

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The Cobra Tram is Zurich's newest tram type and first low floor tram. It is currently only running a limited service on just two tram lines alongside the other tram models, although further rollout is planned for the coming years.

[edit] History

After a lengthy and delayed development process, a prototype series of the trams developed for the VBZ began test operations in Zurich in 2001. However these were withdrawn from operation soon afterwards due to cracks appearing in the drive mechanisms. There were also concerns about the noise levels both within and outside the new trams, leading to addition of noise reduction measures. Since 2002, six Cobra trams have been operating on lines 4 and 9, and plans are underway to introduce a further 68 Cobras to the VBZ network by 2010.

[edit] Controversy

The introduction of this new tram series has had a long and difficult history. The original orders were placed in 1996, with many questioning the choice of Schindler's Cobra over the already tested Combino series from Siemens, selected by both Basel and Bern. This decision was justified by the Verkehrsbetriebe Zurich on the grounds of carriage lengths and compatibility with the Zurich tram network.

The first models of the Cobra prototype were delivered in May 2001 after organisational changes within Schindler, Adtranz and Bombardier caused delays and renegotiations. The subsequent problems with structural weakness and noise within the new trams, causing them to be quickly withdrawn from service, added criticism.

However, since 2002 the six prototype vehicles have proven themselves successful and the teething troubles have been overcome. The go-ahead has therefore been given to expand the fleet to 74 trams by 2010.

[edit] References

Cobra information from VBZ (in German)