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Prague’s new Škoda ForCity Plus 52T trams have officially entered the testing phase, marking a significant step in the city’s transportation modernization. The first of these vehicles began its official approval process on Saturday, April 26.
The new trams will ride for 20,000 kilometers before they can be put into regular service. This is the first stage of testing for the 52T tram, designed to meet the unique needs of Prague’s transportation system, particularly in its historic center.
With the rollout of these modern, low-floor trams, Prague aims to improve the accessibility and efficiency of its tram network. The new vehicles will gradually replace older trams, providing more comfort and capacity for passengers while being better suited to the city’s narrow, winding streets.
First stage of testing underway
The Škoda ForCity Plus 52T trams are currently undergoing the first stage of their approval process, requiring them to travel 20,000 kilometers without passengers. The first half of this distance will be completed without any load, while the second half will include various weights to assess the vehicle’s performance under different conditions.
Testing will take place on the entire tram network in Prague and will occur 24/7, outside regular schedules, with fully trained drivers from the Prague Public Transport Company (DPP) at the helm.
According to DPP’s communications head, Daniel Šabík, the first phase of testing is expected to be completed by the summer of 2025.
Following this, a second phase will begin, which involves test rides with passengers to ensure the trams meet all necessary safety and operational standards. A total of 40,000 kilometers of testing is required before the trams are fully approved for public use.
New design and features
The Škoda ForCity Plus 52T trams are specifically designed for Prague’s unique tram network. With a length of 32 meters and a width of 2.5 meters, these five-section trams offer a seating capacity of 70, along with 173 standing spaces, making them one of the most spacious options for public transport in the city.
Weighing 48 tons and with a total capacity of 243 passengers, these new trams are set to significantly improve Prague’s public transport, particularly for those traveling through the historic city center. The trams are fully low-floor, ensuring easy access for passengers, including those with mobility challenges.
The vehicles are equipped with four chassis—two that rotate freely and two that are partially rotatable. This design allows for improved maneuverability on the city’s tight curves and narrow streets. The 52T trams are designed to reach a maximum speed of 80 km/h and are built to last for a 30-year service life.
The first 20 trams are expected to be delivered by the end of 2025, with a further 20 arriving in 2026, gradually replacing older vehicles and contributing to a more efficient, sustainable transit system in Prague.
