Hyundai Rotem Tram Arrives in Edmonton, Canada... First Entry into North American Tram Market

First Delivery of Vehicles for the Line Awarded in 2021
Designed to Withstand Extreme Cold of Minus 40 Degrees Celsius
Sequential Supply Until 2027... "Expanding into the Global Market"

Hyundai Rotem has made its first entry into the North American tram market. This marks the first time a Korean company has entered Canada's urban transportation network, and the company is being recognized for establishing a foothold for expanding into the North American tram market by leveraging its design and technological capabilities that meet the requirements for operation in extremely cold conditions.

On August 8, Hyundai Rotem announced that the tram it manufactured arrived at the 'Gerry Wright Operations and Maintenance Facility' in Edmonton, Canada, on August 1 (local time). The delivered vehicle is the initial batch of the 'Edmonton Valley Line West' tram project, which Hyundai Rotem won in 2021 with a contract valued at 218.8 billion KRW. It is a single trainset composed of seven modules. After undergoing approximately 2,000 kilometers of trial runs, it will be deployed on a new route connecting downtown Edmonton with the western region. All units will be delivered sequentially by 2027.

The Hyundai Rotem tram arriving at Gary Wright Base in Edmonton, Canada, on the 1st (local time). Hyundai Rotem

Because Canada is a region where winter temperatures can drop as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius, Hyundai Rotem designed the vehicle to ensure stable operation even under extreme weather conditions. The interior features a system that detects temperature changes and maintains an optimal indoor climate, and the body is made from cold-resistant, durable materials that can withstand external impacts. In addition, red and white LED indicators inspired by the colors of the Canadian flag are installed on both sides of the vehicle, making it easy to identify at night while also enhancing its appearance. The maximum operating speed is 80 kilometers per hour. It is a low-floor tram capable of bidirectional operation.

Hyundai Rotem has previously accumulated experience delivering trams in Izmir and Antalya in T?rkiye, as well as in Warsaw, Poland. Domestically, through a hydrogen electric tram demonstration project, the company has secured comprehensive technological capabilities for tram operations, ranging from vehicle manufacturing and trial runs to track and signaling systems and charging infrastructure.

A Hyundai Rotem representative stated, "Hyundai Rotem has previously delivered unmanned trains successfully in Canada," and added, "We will do our utmost to ensure that this tram also becomes a safe and convenient means of transportation for Edmonton citizens." The representative also noted, "Based on our differentiated technology and project track record, we plan to expand our efforts to target the global tram market, including North America."