Post by Interreg CE4CE

Within the CE4CE project, the Szeged pilot demonstrates how circular economy principles can be applied to rolling stock by extending the lifetime of existing tram vehicles through the redesign of a critical electronic component. The pilot focused on developing a new universal door opening and closing control unit for Tatra T6A2 and KT4D-ME trams. As the original units were no longer manufactured and spare parts were unavailable, Szeged Transport Company (SZKT) developed a modern replacement that ensures the continued operation of its tram fleet. 🔧 Pilot approach Rather than replacing entire vehicles due to an obsolete electronic component, the pilot applied a circular "remanufacturing and lifetime extension" approach. A new parameterisable and diagnosable control unit was designed using modern industrial components, accompanied by dedicated diagnostic software and certified for operation in public service. The implementation included technical feasibility studies, engineering design, prototype development, laboratory and vehicle testing, TÜV certification, regulatory approval, manufacturing, and installation in the tram fleet. 📊 Key outcomes: 🔹 Extended the operational lifetime of 28 electric trams through the replacement of a critical obsolete component 🔹 Developed an in-house, certified replacement control unit using modern technology 🔹 Reduced dependence on unavailable spare parts and external suppliers 🔹 Built internal expertise for future development of critical electronic components 🔹 Reduced material consumption by avoiding premature vehicle replacement 🔹 Demonstrated how circular design and remanufacturing can improve the long-term sustainability of public transport fleets The pilot shows how redesigning a single critical component can preserve valuable rolling stock, reduce waste, and strengthen the resilience of public transport systems through circular economy principles. 🎥 Watch the video to discover how the Szeged pilot gave Tatra trams a new lease of life. InterregCE4CE project partners: Leipziger Verkehrsbetriebe Przedsiębiorstwo Komunikacji Autobusowej w Gdyni sp. z o.o. University of Gdansk Szeged Transport Company KRUCH Railway Innovations Univerza v Mariboru Mestna občina Maribor / Municipality of Maribor ATB Azienda Trasporti Bergamo Redmint Impresa Sociale s.c.r.l. Mobilissimus trolley:motion Rupprecht Consult GmbH Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE Programme

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