You can try Hungary’s new tram-trains soon!

The special tram-train vehicles running between Hódmezővásárhely and Szeged received the permit. Now comes a test phase in which vehicles have to run fifty thousand kilometres. Each hybrid tram must pass the test without failure before it can be used by passengers. 

Tram-trains arriving from Spain have received a railway authority permit. All 5 vehicles from Valencia were put in service. The necessary software was set up, connected to the infrastructure, and, of course, the brakes were also tested. Csaba Kiss, the communications manager of Stadler Trains, told Magyar Nemzet that the

next step will be a long-term running test of the vehicles.

“Vehicles must run a total of fifty thousand kilometres without error. If an error occurs during the test that is to be assessed as a series error, the running test for the entire fleet is restarted after the error has been corrected,” said Kiss.

If there is no change, the first Hungarian railway-tram system will be handed over by the end of autumn. It is initially scheduled to run on a temporary schedule. The tram-train is unique not only in Hungary but also in Central Europe. The infrastructure required for the vehicle is also evolving. The repair hall in Szeged is already under construction, and the utility lighting is also underway. They are recruiting people who will drive the tram-trains. Drivers also need to be trained as train drivers and tram drivers.

The special vehicle is scheduled to travel to Subotica.

To extend the line, the National Infrastructure Development Ltd. announced a tender. The winner must prepare the plans and obtain the permits. Hopefully, this will take us to Subotica in Serbia, which has historical Hungarian roots. In connection with the investment, a car and bicycle parking lot and six tram-train stops have been set up in Hódmezővásárhely, according to telex.hu.

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Source: Magyar Nemzet, telex.hu