KONČAR’s low-floor tram prepares for Osijek debut
Today, Osijek Mayor Ivan Radić toured KONČAR – Electric Vehicles in Zagreb to review the manufacturing of 10 advanced low-floor trams for his city. The mayor announced that the first tram will be ready for service by March, alongside plans for a future expansion of the fleet.
„The manufacturing of Osijek’s new trams is on track, and we are thrilled with the progress. The first tram is set to arrive this March, with nine more to follow throughout 2025. These trams are designed to be safer, more comfortable, modern, and accessible for people with disabilities, boasting six meters of added length than the trams currently in operation. This nearly €25 million initiative is entirely funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan" said Mayor Radić.
As part of a broader effort to revitalize Osijek’s public transportation, the city is investing €45 million to modernize its tram infrastructure. The project, which includes 10 kilometers of track upgrades and 23 station renovations, is 90% complete. Mayor Radić highlighted that the initiative aligns with the city’s vision for enhanced mobility. „Expanding the fleet is a top priority, with plans for 10 additional low-floor trams, bringing the total to 20. We have signed a framework agreement and are awaiting the ministry’s call for proposals to finalize this expansion, which would meet the city’s transit needs - the first major upgrade since 1982," added Mayor Radić. The mayor also highlighted advancements in Osijek's public transport system, noting that plans to procure 17 electric buses are ready for submission. Highlighting the innovative design of the trams destined for Osijek, our CEO Gordan Kolak noted their 20.8-meter length and wider frame compared to those in Zagreb. The trams also feature energy storage systems, allowing autonomous operation in case of network failure.
„As system assembly nears completion, the first tram is set to be finalized by late February and will arrive in Osijek in early March for testing on the newly upgraded infrastructure. Deliveries of the remaining nine trams will continue swiftly, ensuring the entire fleet is in place by September," our CEO Gordan Kolak shared.
„The trams are a reflection of modern engineering - sleek, innovative, and significantly enhanced compared to earlier models. We believe this series is just the beginning for Osijek, with the potential for an additional 10 trams to follow. It’s deeply rewarding to contribute to the public transportation advancements in both Zagreb and Osijek," Kolak stated, noting that preparations are underway to train Osijek’s public transport company drivers and technical staff.
„This tram symbolizes more than just a new mode of transport; it marks the beginning of a transformative era for Osijek’s public transit. As the birthplace of Croatia’s first tram, we cherish our legacy and are excited to build upon it. These cutting-edge low-floor trams, engineered for safety, spaciousness, and full accessibility, will soon transform urban mobility in Osijek. We hope this innovation will also encourage a reduction in car usage," Mayor Radić concluded.