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Sheffield Supertram (Siemens-Duewag)

The Supertram is a fleet of trams built for the Sheffield Supertram light rail network which began operation in 1994. At nearly thirty five metres long the Supertrams are one of the longest articulated vehicles built for public transport in the UK [1].

Supertram 120 departs Spring Lane



Information
Number built: 25
Built: 1993-4
Builder: Siemens-Duewag
Engine: 4 Three-Phase Siemens traction motors (750v DC OHLE)
Power: 1, 420 hp (1, 060 kW)
Wheel arrangement: B-B-B-B

The trams were built at Siemens-Duewag and first tested on Düsseldorf's Rheinbahn network before being shipped over. The Supertrams consist of three articulated sections [2] and have all powered axles due to the steep gradients on part of the network [3].

The Supertrams underwent a full refurbishment in 2006-08 which included interior an exterior changes including the replacement of the original destination boards with LEDs to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act.

Tram 117 arrives at Attercliffe

Aboard a Supertram behind the cab

Tram 118 at Fitzalan Square / Ponds Forge

Tram 119 at Hyde Park

Tram 118 again, passing a sister tram at Woodbourn Road



[1] Supertram Vehicle Information <https://www.stagecoachbus.com/supertram/vehicle-information>
[2] Colin J. Marsden, Rail Guide 2016 (Ian Allan, 2016) p. 282
[3] Robert Pritchard & Alan Yearsley, UK Metro & Light Rail Systems (Platform 5, 2019) p. 138