DSW21 Boosts Dortmund's Urban Mobility with Additional Light Rail Vehicles

DSW21 orders additional light rail vehicles from HeiterBlick and Kiepe Electric, further modernizing Dortmund's public transport with advanced features for enhanced passenger experience.

Dortmund's public transport landscape is set to receive a significant enhancement as Dortmunder Stadtwerke AG (DSW21) has announced the procurement of eight more light rail vehicles (LRVs) from HeiterBlick and Kiepe Electric. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, these new additions will augment an already ambitious order of 26 LRVs, of which eight have been successfully delivered.

This strategic acquisition is part of a broader initiative to modernize and expand Dortmund's light rail fleet, ensuring that the city's public transportation system remains robust and future-ready. The modernization effort, slated for completion by 2031, will see a total overhaul of the existing 64-unit fleet to meet the latest standards of efficiency and passenger comfort.

Ulrich Jaeger, DSW21's Transport Director, emphasized the importance of the order, stating, "With the acquisition of these additional eight vehicles, on top of the 26 previously ordered and the modernization of our 64 existing units, DSW21 is positioning itself strongly for future demands."

HeiterBlick will spearhead the construction of the new and refurbished vehicles, ensuring uniformity across the fleet. Kiepe Electric will outfit each LRV with cutting-edge electrical systems and equipment, including traction, auxiliary power supplies, and advanced train control and management systems. The partnership between HeiterBlick and Kiepe Electric promises to elevate the standard of public transport in Dortmund by merging innovative manufacturing with state-of-the-art technology.

Jan Erning, Project and Sales Manager at HeiterBlick, highlighted the project's significance, "This is a landmark initiative for Dortmund and represents our most sustainable light rail project in terms of production and use. All 98 vehicles in the fleet will be equipped to the same high standard, ensuring a seamless experience for passengers and drivers alike."

The newly ordered six-axle, high-floor, bi-directional LRVs will be outfitted with modern amenities, including efficient heating and ventilation systems, Wi-Fi, and USB sockets, enhancing passenger comfort and convenience.

DSW21's commitment to upgrading its light rail fleet underscores a comprehensive approach to improving urban mobility in Dortmund, ensuring that the city's public transport remains a paragon of reliability, sustainability, and passenger satisfaction.