Prague's first new tram model in 20 years enters service on city's streets

Prague’s public transport network will officially introduce its first seven new Škoda 52T trams into regular service on Monday, Nov. 3. The vehicles will run on line 12 from Lehovec to Sídliště Barrandov, marking the beginning of a broader rollout that will see 20 new trams operating in the city by the end of the year.

The introduction of the new trams is expected to improve daily commuting for residents and visitors alike. Each vehicle can carry up to 243 passengers, including 70 seated, offering more space and comfort than previous models. The modernized fleet is also fully air-conditioned, low-floor, and equipped with LED lighting and digital information screens.

The Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) plans to gradually add additional new trams to line 12 and other routes served by the Hloubětín depot.

“The first seven 52T trams will make up roughly a third of the vehicles operating on line 12,” said DPP communications manager Daniel Šabík. “By December, all 20 trams from the initial order will be in service.”

The Škoda 52T completed its trial operation in September, traveling 20,000 kilometers with passengers in Prague streets as part of the approval process by the Czech Railway Authority. Following successful certification, the first seven vehicles received operational licenses.

The trams were developed in collaboration with more than 230 suppliers, 76 percent of them Czech companies, supporting domestic industry. Each vehicle costs roughly CZK 82.5 million crowns before VAT. DPP’s contract allows for up to 200 new trams over the next several years, gradually replacing older vehicles and expanding capacity to meet growing demand.

Jan Šurovský, DPP’s Technical Director, emphasized that the project has proceeded without major technical issues, noting that the first 20 trams will be fully operational this year. “This project runs according to schedule, which is a significant achievement for Prague’s transport infrastructure,” he said.

At 32 meters long and 2.5 meters wide, the trams are designed to navigate Prague’s narrow streets and sharp curves. They feature five double doors for fast boarding, a fully low-floor design, and a modern information system with six screens running the length of the tram. The top operational speed is 70 kilometers per hour, and the vehicles are designed to reduce noise and increase passenger comfort.

“The city waited 20 years for new trams,” Zdeněk Hřib, Prague’s Deputy Mayor for Transport, said earlier this year as the trams entered the testing phase.

“These modern Škoda 52T trams, fully air-conditioned and low-floor, will improve commuting while supporting Prague’s ongoing tram expansion program.” He highlighted upcoming projects, including new lines to Malešice, Strahov, Nové Dvory, and Olšanská–Habrová.

Passengers are encouraged to try the new trams on line 12, where the vehicles will be most frequently seen. Over time, the 52T trams will appear on additional routes, enhancing travel across Prague and improving accessibility, comfort, and efficiency for public transport users.