A new era of tram transport is beginning in Prague: the Škoda 52T has started its first test runs. Before passengers are allowed to board, however, the new model must undergo a rigorous testing phase.
On Saturday, 26th April 2025, Prague’s new tram entered its first phase of approval for operation in the Czech Republic. The ŠKODA FORCITY PLUS PRAHA 52T tram, car number 9503, is being tested in accordance with the requirements of the Czech Railway Authority. During the test phase, the tram must complete 20,000 kilometres without passengers and another 20,000 kilometres with passengers. The results of these tests will determine how many units the Prague transport company will ultimately order. Prague Transport has already placed a binding order for 40 trams, which will be delivered in stages – the first 20 this year, followed by the remaining 20 by the end of 2026.
In the first phase, without passengers, the trams must cover a total of 20,000 kilometres: the first half without a load, the second half with different loads. The approval runs will take place outside the regular timetable across the entire Prague tram network – operating 24/7, interrupted only by necessary checks. The trams are driven by specially trained drivers from Prague’s public transport company. DPP and the Škoda Group expect this first test phase to be completed by the summer of 2025. This will be followed by the second phase: test runs with passengers, during which a further 20,000 kilometres must be completed.
The new trams for Prague are all low-floor vehicles and offer greater comfort for passengers than previous vehicle types. The interior is more spacious, with wider passageways between segments, and the entire vehicle’s air conditioning system uses natural, environmentally friendly refrigerants. The new trams are equipped with a modern information system that improves passenger orientation during the journey. Technological features such as bogies with axles, electromechanical brakes, and energy recovery ensure lower maintenance costs and reduced energy consumption. Thanks to these innovations, the new trams will not only be an environmentally friendly solution but also an economically advantageous one for urban transport.
Over 230 suppliers are involved in the development and production of the new trams for Prague, with 76% of them based in the Czech Republic.
