Key Facts at a Glance
- Investment: Around 34 million euros for fleet renewal.
- Quantity: Nine new Tramlink vehicles.
- Schedule: Deployment is planned for autumn 2026.
- Renewal: Replacement for the aging GT6M trams.
- Features: Full accessibility and high energy efficiency.
Jena (22.02.2026) – A significant milestone for public transport in the Saalestadt has been reached: the production of the long-awaited new generation of trams for Jena has officially begun. As reported by MDR, the first trams are expected to shape the cityscape as early as the second half of the year.
Generational Change on the Rails
For many commuters and users of Jena’s local transport, it is news that sparks anticipation. Production of the so-called Tramlink fleet has commenced. The order comprises a total of nine vehicles, ushering in a noticeable wave of modernization in the fleet. The goal is to successively replace the aging GT6M trams. For decades, these formed the backbone of inner-city transport between Lobeda, the city center, and Jena-Nord, but they increasingly no longer meet modern standards for comfort and technology.
According to current plans, the new models are scheduled to enter regular service starting in autumn 2026. This tight schedule underscores the urgency with which the transport company is responding to increasing passenger numbers and the higher demands of modern public transport.
Focus on Accessibility and Energy Efficiency
When designing the new fleet, the focus was not only on design but primarily on functionality. A central aspect of the new procurement is full accessibility. In a city like Jena, which transports many young families with strollers as well as an aging population, level-entry access and sufficient interior space are not a luxury but a necessity. The new trams are intended to significantly facilitate access for people with limited mobility.
In addition to passenger comfort, ecology also plays a decisive role. The Tramlink vehicles are considered particularly energy-efficient. In view of rising energy costs and the city’s climate goals, lower power consumption is a key argument for the multi-million euro investment.
34 Million Euros for Jena’s Mobility
Jenaer Nahverkehr is investing significantly in the project: around 34 million euros are being channeled into the acquisition of the nine trams. This sum illustrates the importance of rail-bound local transport in the narrow Saaletal. Since widening the streets in the valley is geographically almost impossible, the tram remains the most effective means of moving large crowds through the city without traffic jams. Especially on the heavily frequented main axes, the new trains are expected to provide relief and ensure schedule stability.
Outlook: Autumn Brings Change
It will still be a few months before the first blue-and-yellow (or newly designed) trams roll through the Oberaue. However, the production that has now started is the starting signal for the intensive phase of fleet renewal. Passengers can look forward to how the riding experience will change starting at the end of the year. With the commissioning in autumn 2026, Jena is taking another step toward becoming a modern, transport-friendly major city.
We will stay on top of things for you and report as soon as the first test runs take place on the Jena track network.
Source:
New trams for Jena – Production of the Tramlink fleet started
Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.