Bombardier’s share amounts to about EUR 30m. The order comprises 14 vehicles announced in the tender as well as four additional trams. The agreement further includes an option for six additional vehicles.

In addition to the delivery of 32 low-floor trams between 1999 and 2003, this contract means that KVG will now have a tram fleet entirely composed of Bombardier low-floor trams. - The decision for these trams is a decision for 100% comfort for all our customers. Low-floor access and wide doors are not only convenient for mobility impaired passengers, but for everyone using our trams - said Andreas Helbig, Chairman of the Board of KVG.

Grego Peters, President, Light Rail Vehicles, Bombardier Transportation, said: - This order marks KVG’s trust in the quality and reliability of our vehicles. It also underlines the success of the Flexity Classic series, which we are currently delivering to the City of Dortmund. We will move on with production for Kassel following these deliveries.

The 18 new trams will be manufactured at the Bombardier site in Bautzen, Germany and are scheduled to be delivered between November 2011 and February 2013.

This bi-directional tram for Kassel consists of three modules and has eight axles with 70 percent low-floor area. The Flexity Classic vehicles are 30 meters long and tailored to the KVG network requirements. The trams accommodate up to 176 passengers and have two multi-purpose areas for wheelchairs, prams and bicycles Vossloh Kiepe furnishes the new vehicles with its proven propulsion technology and is responsible for planning, installing and implementing the electrical equipment.

The vehicle is fit for tunnel operation and will have additional equipment for operating on routes with simplified operation according to EBO (railway construction and operation regulations).