Rolling Stock
Quebec City has created a specific set of requirements for its rolling stock, in order to integrate it in the city's environment and character. This results in a rolling stock that will be heavily customized and, at this time, does not have a definitive manufacturer.
Once the Request for Proposal (RFP) is completed, we expect to get more information as the manufacturer gets knows and the underlying platform for the rolling stock.
When designing the requirements for its rolling stock, design and integration considerations are key in their objective to build a modern tramway line. The city wants its rolling stock to be modern, sober, meaningful and simple.
To achieve this, the designers have focused on a creating a design that is ready for the 2030-2040s, but not provocative using various design elements that make it graceful in its integration among the newer and older parts of town.
A large emphasis on glass and dark elements to create a mirror-like effect that reflects the neighborhoods it crosses as well as the city's history. LED accents throughout the exterior of the train make it visible to road users, and add a modern touch to its design.
Inside, large emphasis is put on making the rolling stock feel bright and modern. White elements are accented with different shades of blue and full LED lighting. Various seating options will be offered to accommodate the needs and preferences of passengers with fixed seating, jump seats and "leaning bars". In addition to those seated arrangements, straps and bars will be installed throughout to enable standing passengers to have grip during movement. Using a 3.3 passengers per square metre measurement, an expected 260 passengers are expected to fit in the train at peak times. Because it will be circulating on a dedicated platform, it will not be subject to harsh road conditions often seen as part of winter.
As part of its passenger information system, visual and audio messages will indicate upcoming stations, direction of travel and service notices. Users will be able to monitor the arrival time of upcoming trains using various services, including RTC's Nomade that is already implemented in its buses.
To deal with Quebec' particular climate, which sees cold winters and hot summers, they will be equipped with modern HVAC systems to ensure the comfort of all passengers. It is expected that dual glazing and additional insulation will also be used to improve winter performance.
Measuring 43 metres, they will use a a full low-floor design to enable universal accessibility at all stations. Level boarding and exit through all doors will enable for more flexible operations compared to existing buses that only allow entry at the front. The trains will be fully-electric (750V DC, catenary contact line) and will operate based on visual sight-lines of the conductors.
