Alstom has signed a contract for a 700-metre double-track extension of the VLT tramway system in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The extension will provide an integrated terminal connection with a new Bus Rapid Transit system and interconnection with the bus station in the city. The scope of the project includes the 700-metre extension, supply of a four-platform terminal station (Terminal Gentileza). Alstom will also supply the APS system, a new rectifier substation, adapt an existing one, and supply all signalling along the extension.

APS, also known as Alimentation par Sol is a form of ground-level power supply for street trams. The comprises two collector shoes underneath the tram, and when the vehicle passes through the place where Power Box equipment is installed, the corresponding APS rail segments are energised and the consequent power supply is released to the vehicle. There are also a number of supercapacitors that store and supply energy to the vehicle in places without energising rails, or to the next power point in the event of a power failure. The system eliminates the need for external wires and, consequently, enhances the architecture and city landscape.

The VLT was inaugurated for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in 2016. It has three lines with 29 stops and a fleet of 32 trains with a capacity of 420 passengers each.

The announcement of the new contract takes place at the same time that the VLT in Rio de Janeiro completes six years of operation. Manufactured by Alstom in Taubaté (São Paulo), the Alstom Citadis model for the Rio de Janeiro tramway has already carried over 88 million people on more than 1 million trips, for a total of 5.5 million kilometres in both the city and the Porto Maravilha region. The tramway integrates with the city’s subway, suburban trains, buses, ships, ferries, and Santos Dumont airport.

Pierre Bercaire, General Director of Alstom Brasil, said:

“The tram allows the city to develop sustainable mobility, in addition to rethinking and modernising urban areas and preserving its architectural heritage.”

“Alstom celebrates the contributions of the tram to the capital of Rio, knowing that thousands of passengers have their lives improved daily, thanks to this transport system. During this period, we assumed a commitment to the city of Rio de Janeiro and worked to maintain this innovative operation, which generates benefits for people, both residents and tourists who circulate through the city.”