The introduction of the new Stadler Tina-type tram in Basel, which debuted in the autumn of 2024 to replace vehicles over 40 years old, was initially met with high expectations for modern technology and accessibility. However, the rollout quickly faced significant public backlash, leading to the unflattering nicknames “Rumpel-Drämmli” (rumble-tram) and “Erdbeben-Drämmli” (earthquake-tram). Residents reported excessive noise and intense vibrations, particularly when the vehicles traversed complex infrastructure such as switches, intersections, and curves at locations like the Bahnhof SBB or Bankenplatz.
Did You Know? The challenges faced by the Tina tram are not unique to Basel. similar reports of noise and vibrations have surfaced in the German cities of Darmstadt and Halle, where residents have called for measures such as a potential halt to operations or night-driving restrictions.
Following these complaints, the Baselland Transport AG (BLT) and manufacturer Stadler initiated technical adjustments to the fleet, focusing on the chassis, suspension, brake systems, and vehicle cladding. Philipp Glogg, the technical director at BLT, reported that these efforts have successfully halved the noise level, bringing the Tina-type vehicles to a sound profile comparable to the older Tango fleet.
Expert Insight: The divergence in strategy between the BLT and the Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe (BVB) highlights the high stakes of public transit procurement. While the BLT is attempting to engineer a solution to keep the fleet operational, the BVB’s decision to reject the model based on high vibration measurements underscores a rigorous, risk-averse approach to urban infrastructure, which may now force a complex restart of their procurement process.
Despite the noise reduction, the persistent issue of vibration remains. To address this, a new testing phase is scheduled to begin in July, involving the installation of new, rubber-sprung wheels on a BLT tram. These wheels are designed to offer greater dampening than the current components. The testing process will proceed in two stages: initial trials without passengers, followed by an evaluation during regular service. Based on the results of a one-month test period, officials will determine whether this modification should be implemented across the fleet.
Meanwhile, the BVB has formally announced its decision to forgo the procurement of the Tina-type tram, citing vibration measurements that were deemed “significantly too high.” As the BVB initiates a new tender process, the path forward remains uncertain, particularly given that other manufacturers have not previously submitted applications for the contract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the BLT testing new wheels?
The BLT is testing new, rubber-sprung wheels to improve dampening and reduce the vibrations that have persisted despite earlier technical modifications to the tram’s chassis and suspension.
What is the status of the Tina-type tram in Basel-Stadt?
The Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe (BVB) has decided not to purchase the Tina-type tram after internal assessments found that the vibration measurements were too high for their requirements.
How has the noise level of the Tina-type tram changed?
According to BLT technical director Philipp Glogg, initial adjustments to the vehicles, including the suspension and brakes, have resulted in a halving of the noise level, making the newer trams comparable to the older Tango-type fleet.
Will these technical modifications be sufficient to satisfy public concerns regarding the vibration levels of the new fleet?
