Poznań modernises tram fleet with affordable low-floor vehicles from Germany

Poznań’s public transport operator MPK is modernising its tram fleet in a smart and cost-effective way: the city has purchased 24 used low-floor trams from Bonn, Germany. Built in the mid-1990s, the vehicles offer a fast and affordable way to expand accessible, step-free services. At around £46,500 per unit, they are significantly cheaper than new trams.

The 28.5-metre vehicles feature around 70% low-floor area, space for more than 200 passengers and have been repainted in Poznań’s corporate colours of metallic green, grey-black window bands and yellow roof-line stripes. Before entering service, they are being technically adapted to local tracks and systems and will be maintained by MPK staff.

The purchase is part of a dual modernisation strategy: Poznań is integrating these used German trams while also introducing brand-new Moderus Gamma vehicles from Polish manufacturers. Together, these investments enable the retirement of the city’s older high-floor Konstal 105Na trams and will significantly improve accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

The move has sparked debate. Some opposition politicians and media outlets criticise the decision to import vehicles that are around 30 years old, arguing that the city should prioritise new domestic products. Supporters counter that, despite their age, the Bonn trams remain more modern and comfortable than the vehicles they replace — and that purchasing high-quality used rolling stock is an affordable way to accelerate fleet renewal.

Author: Anna Vasilenka

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.