The future of the tram: automation and expansion by 2040 in Luxembourg!

The future of the tram: automation and expansion by 2040 in Luxembourg!

Significant developments in road transport are imminent in Luxembourg, particularly in relation to the tram network. The government is planning a major expansion of the tram network, aimed at improving mobility in the city and connecting key points, including Findel Airport. Minister Yuriko Backes has already outlined the first steps as part of the National Mobility Plan 2035, including the commissioning of a new tram line to the airport, which promises to shorten travel times. On September 27, 2024, Minister Backes, Mayor Lydie Polfer and Luxtram Director Helge Dorstewitz presented the next steps and specified the planned expansions.

A central aspect of the planning is the underground section of the new tram solution on the Route d’Arlon. This 550 meter long part is intended to run between the future Wunnquartier Stade and the Center Hospitalier de Luxembourg and was developed to minimize the impact on private property acquisition. At the same time, the redesign of the surface allows a qualitative improvement of the urban space. The environmental assessments are due to be submitted next month before a law is presented to finance it until the end of 2025. The section itself is planned to be operational in 2032 and will include four above-ground stops.

Innovations and technical aspects

The current discussion also includes the possible automation of the tram, which is being considered by 2040. A study entitled “Etude de l'exploitation du réseau tramway 2040 et des corridors bus complémentaires” examines scenarios for the use of the tram network and their impact on the bus network. This research aims to help optimize mobility in the region without compromising the technical feasibility of the existing network. According to Luxtram director Helge Dorstewitz, automation remains at a level that requires the presence of a driver at the GoA2 standard, but efficiency is strengthened by advances in automatic braking and acceleration technology.

However, another point remains controversial: the 350 meter long section of the route in Neipuertsgaass has currently been put on hold, although it should not affect the entire tram network, as Mobility Minister Backes emphasizes. The Luxtram director explained that the route will not be a priority until 2035 because the impact on the landscape is considered too great.

Long-term developments and plans

Construction projects are already planned for the short and medium term. For example, the first extension of tram line 1 in Kirchberg (K2A) will begin in 2025 and will lead to the European School. This 2.3 km long route is scheduled to be operational by 2027. At the same time, extensions to the “Nei Hollerich” district with a 1.1 km route and additional stops have been approved by the local authorities. In addition, the section between “Luxexpo” and the airport will be 3.9 km long and feature two new stops, with tests scheduled for December 2024.

Additional plans for a 4.2km extension along the Route d’Esch are also in preparation and are scheduled to become operational between 2030 and 2031. The efficient implementation of these projects will be supported by a new stabling and maintenance center in Cloche d’Or, which will accommodate 40 new trains. Construction of this center is scheduled to begin in 2025/2026 and operations are scheduled to begin in 2029/2030. Preparations for the rapid tram between Luxembourg City and Esch-sur-Alzette involve the construction of several sections, with the first section targeted for a future funding law.

Overall, the progress in the tram network heralds a future-oriented and sustainable mobility concept for Luxembourg residents, which is expected to be fully effective by 2040. These planned developments are expected to significantly improve infrastructure and provide an environmentally friendly alternative that meets the demands of future urbanization.