Metro do Porto passengers were ordered to evacuate a train at Senhora da Hora station in Matosinhos after 7:30 p.m. due to excessive heat, according to reports from JN. The transport company confirmed it is aware of air conditioning failures affecting Eurotram (ET) compositions, particularly on the Blue (A), Yellow (D), and Orange (F) lines.
Why is the air conditioning failing?
The cooling systems are reaching their capacity limits during current heatwaves, according to Metro do Porto. The company stated that its 72 Eurotram vehicles were purchased 25 years ago, based on IPMA projections that set a maximum thermal reference of 35 degrees Celsius.
When temperatures exceed 35 degrees, the air conditioning shuts down due to high pressure. Metro do Porto noted that the age of the fleet and the size of the glass areas prevent a complete resolution of these anomalies.
How does the company manage these failures?
Metro do Porto maintains that no composition begins operation without a functional air conditioning system. The systems use automatic control based on external temperatures and follow international regulations, which the company says prevents the AC from being manually turned off.
Vehicles with malfunctions typically undergo repair on the same day. To mitigate current issues, the company has increased preventive maintenance and is testing complementary solutions for high-temperature days.
What happens next for the fleet?
The fleet is expected to expand with the arrival of 22 new units, which Metro do Porto announced have already been acquired. These new additions may reduce the reliance on the aging Eurotram models.
The company may continue to implement preventive maintenance and test additional cooling solutions as it manages the transition to the newer units.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lines are most affected by the heat issues?
According to Metro do Porto, the constraints have primarily affected the Blue (A) line in Matosinhos, the Yellow (D) line in Gaia, and the Orange (F) line in Gondomar.
At what temperature does the air conditioning shut off?
The system shuts down due to high pressure once the temperature exceeds 35 degrees Celsius, a limit defined at the time of purchase based on IPMA projections.
Is the company replacing the old trains?
Metro do Porto stated it has acquired 22 additional units that will arrive shortly to expand the fleet.
Do you think updating public transport infrastructure is keeping pace with changing climate patterns?
