Post by Yarra Trams

B2 Class trams have been the workhorses of Melbourne’s network since the mid-1980s. But as time passes, sourcing original parts like the traction system that powers them has become increasingly challenging.   Yarra Trams, in partnership with local supplier TTM Rail and international technology partner KIEPE, has developed a modern traction system to extend the service life of the B2 fleet. After months of rigorous testing, the new technology is now in passenger trials on up to four trams, which will be progressively introduced into service until the end of the year.   For passengers, the experience is deliberately seamless - the ride feels just like any other B2. Behind the scenes, though, the upgrade is delivering big improvements: operating more efficiently, powerfully and reliably, while proving it can handle everything Melbourne’s network throws at it.   The extremely complex traction system upgrade project has been a labour of love for many of Yarra Trams’ dedicated engineers, rolling stock maintainers, and drivers. Congratulations and thanks to the teams at Yarra Trams, the Department of Transport and Planning, TTM and Kiepe! Edwin Fatchudin Rahmat Dwi Putra Brenden Schonfelder Duong Prendergast Darren French, PMP B.Eng(Hons) Ali Tamaddon Sam Petrou Peter Ross Michael Weel MIEAust CPEng NER Jim Armstrong Maria Vassiliadis Chris Leahy Haider Ali Santhosh Krishna Vikas S. Julian Khojasteh, RPEng Bahareh Rahmanzadeh Ramazan Demirbueken Alex Cohen Heiko Brueggemann Alper Ertan Arthur Fraanje Mohamed Radwan Bart Paino David Cigognini Luke Basilicata