This case study is featured in the “Innovation Through Partnerships” pavilion by SwissTech at the Impact’24 conference. Discover more about SwissTech at www.swiss.tech.
Innovation Through Partnerships: Mobility
In an era where urban centres are increasingly burdened by congestion and pollution, the city of Krakow has taken a significant step towards sustainable mobility with the introduction of the TANGO Lajkonik trams. The new vehicles were to be developed in line with the city authorities’ plan to deinstall the catenary network from the historic part of the Old Town while maintaining comfortable and sustainable means of transport for residents. Hence, an innovative solution was needed.
A collaboration between Stadler Polska, a Polish company belonging to Stadler Rail, Switzerland’s largest train manufacturer, and Medcom, a Polish electronics company, alongside the city’s transport authority, MPK Krakow, has led to the development of an innovative tram system that fits Krakow’s particular needs.
Krakow, with its rich history and UNESCO-listed Old Town, faces the dual challenge of preserving its architectural heritage while meeting the contemporary needs of its residents for efficient and sustainable urban transport.
The city required a transport solution that could navigate its historic areas without needing electricity from overhead lines in the Old Town area. At the same time, trams were needed to ensure accessibility, reliability, and minimal environmental impact.
The solution came in the form of the TANGO Lajkonik tram: these trams have an innovative battery system that allows them to cover a distance of up to three kilometres with the pantograph folded, without electrical power from overhead lines. The TANGO Lajkonik shows what can be achieved through the synergy of international expertise and local knowledge. At the heart of this innovation was the collaboration between international Stadler’s engineering teams of Stadler Group, a Swiss producer of advanced rail vehicles, and Medcom, a Polish pioneer in high-efficiency power electronics.
This partnership resulted in:
- Innovation: unique TANGO Lajkonik tram is the first tram in Poland that can run without power from the traction network – it can operate for up to 3 km only using power from the traction battery;
- Sustainability: equipped with energy recuperation systems, the trams convert braking energy into electricity.
- Comfort: The trams are low floor, ensuring ease of access for all passengers, including those with mobility challenges. Functional passenger space, efficient air conditioning and USB ports for charging portable devices are just some of the elements that guarantee a comfortable journey by public transport.
The introduction of 110* TANGO Lajkonik trams has been transformative for Krakow, significantly enhancing the city’s public transport system by:
- Reducing environmental impact: The trams’ energy-efficient design and operation contribute to reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
- Preserving cultural heritage: The future possibility of running without power from the traction network in historical parts of Krakow enables the maintenance of the integrity of the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town.
- Improving mobility: The trams have increased the capacity and reliability of public transport in Krakow, making urban travel more convenient and accessible for residents and tourists alike.
By leveraging the strengths of international and local partners, Krakow has not only enhanced its public transport system but has also set a precedent for integrating modern technology into historical contexts. The TANGO Lajkonik tram project exemplifies how international partnerships can drive innovation in urban development and sustainability.
*4 trams have been equipped with the battery system; in the remaining vehicles it is possible to install the system in the future.
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