The Ostrava Public Transport Company (Dopravní podnik Ostrava, DPO) has launched a tender to install air conditioning units in 38 Vario LF trams. According to official procurement documentation, the project carries an estimated value of 129,4 million CZK excluding VAT, equating to approximately 3,4 million CZK per vehicle. The upgrade includes full installation, commissioning, and systems capable of air disinfection and interior scenting.
How will the new air conditioning systems function?
The DPO requires a fully automatic climate control system that allows for temperature adjustments directly from the driver’s cabin. Technical specifications mandate a minimum cooling capacity of 20 kW and a minimum heating capacity of 15 kW. For coupled tram sets, the system must be controllable from the lead vehicle. Beyond temperature regulation, the units must feature air disinfection technology with at least 85 percent efficacy against viruses and bacteria. The systems will also include controlled scent-dispensing modules to improve the passenger environment.
What is the timeline for the installation?
The installation will occur in phases to minimize service disruption. Under the terms of the tender, a chosen contractor may hold a maximum of two trams at their facility simultaneously. Once a vehicle is delivered, the contractor has 30 calendar days to complete the installation and commissioning. The contract is designed for long-term flexibility, allowing DPO to issue orders for up to 1,460 days following the contract’s effective date.
The DPO is not alone in retrofitting older fleets. Brno is currently undertaking a similar initiative, where Vario trams are receiving full-vehicle air conditioning as part of their comprehensive general overhauls.
How does the Ostrava project compare to other regions?
The trend of retrofitting legacy rolling stock with modern climate control is gaining momentum across the Czech Republic. While Ostrava is focusing on a standalone upgrade for its 38 Vario LF units, Brno has integrated air conditioning into its broader modernization programs. In both cities, the goal is to improve passenger comfort in older vehicles that were not originally equipped with climate control systems during their initial manufacture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for submitting bids?
Interested contractors must submit their bids by August 3, according to the tender notice posted on the National Electronic Tool (NIPEZ) portal.
What is the primary factor for selecting a contractor?
The sole evaluation criterion for this project is price.
Can the air conditioning be controlled by the driver?
Yes, the DPO requirements specify that the system must allow for temperature correction from the driver’s cabin, with additional capability to control multi-car sets from the front vehicle.
Are you a regular user of the Ostrava tram network? Share your thoughts on whether climate control is a top priority for public transit upgrades in the comments below.
