[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heung-soon] Hyundai Rotem announced on the 2nd that it has signed a tram supply contract worth 218.8 billion KRW with the city of Edmonton, Canada.
The tram vehicles contracted this time are scheduled to be deployed on the new Valley Line West route, which connects downtown Edmonton and the western region of Canada.
The bid attracted fierce competition from leading global railway vehicle companies such as Germany's Siemens, Spain's CAF Group, and France's Alstom. The bidding process consisted of two stages: the first stage evaluated major supply records and project execution capabilities, and the second stage conducted a comprehensive assessment of technical skills and price.
Hyundai Rotem won the bid with a strategy that optimized the interior layout of the vehicles, increased the seat ratio beyond the standard specifications, and enhanced space efficiency. On the vehicle sides, separate LED (light-emitting diode) indicators were applied to improve aesthetic effects and secure visibility at night, thereby enhancing safety. Additionally, considering passenger convenience, an indoor temperature maintenance system that detects temperature changes was applied, along with a door structure with excellent wheelchair accessibility. Furthermore, a locally customized training package was prepared, providing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) programs for driving simulation and parts maintenance training.
Previously, Hyundai Rotem had experience signing a contract to supply driverless electric vehicles for the Canada Vancouver International Airport rail connection in 2005. At that time, the vehicles were delivered ahead of schedule, advancing the operation schedule by about three months, and Hyundai Rotem received a letter of appreciation and a plaque from the Canadian implementing agency in recognition of its contribution to the successful hosting of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. Subsequently, in 2018, Hyundai Rotem secured an additional contract to supply driverless electric vehicles on the same route.
A Hyundai Rotem official stated, "Through continuous research and development, we will expand our tram-related business and demonstrate technological capabilities that can lead the domestic tram industry."
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