C-class Melbourne tram
| Industry | Tram manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | La Rochelle , France |
| Products | Alstom Citadis 202 trams |
The C-class Melbourne tram consists of a series of 36 three-section Alstom Citadis 202 low-floor trams manufactured in La Rochelle, France, currently operating within the Trams in Melbourne system. Delivered between 2001 and 2002, these vehicles were the first low-floor trams introduced in Melbourne and represented the first imported trams since the 1920s.
History
In an effort to modernize and replace the older Z-class Melbourne tram#Z1 and Z2 classes vehicles, Yarra Trams acquired 36 Alstom Citadis 202 low-floor trams as part of a franchise agreement. This procurement introduced significant advancements in accessibility and increased passenger capacity to Melbourne’s tram fleet.
Tailored to suit local requirements by Alstom, the initial batch of four trams arrived at Webb Dock on 10 August 2001. Following their outfitting and testing at Preston Workshops, they commenced operation on 12 October 2001. The final unit was delivered by June 2002 and started service two months later. At first, the entire C1-class fleet was deployed solely on route 109, elevating service standards along this line.
Criticisms
The Citadis trams have been subject to criticism from the Australian Rail Tram & Bus Industry Union (RTBU), particularly concerning operational challenges linked to design flaws causing driver injuries. In 2011, issues with rear-vision cameras were raised; Yarra Trams replaced these multiple times due to poor nighttime visibility and glare problems, which were eventually resolved by July 2012.
Describing the trams as "cheap as chips," the RTBU highlighted problems such as swaying and lateral forces experienced at speeds exceeding 25 km/h that led to driver injuries. In response, Yarra Trams implemented lumbar support for drivers, enhanced track conditions to minimize sway, and altered driver controls to reduce wrist strain.
Tram number 3011 has experienced three derailments following collisions with vehicles, with the latest incident occurring on 6 October 2019. After these events, the RTBU renewed demands for the withdrawal of this tram model from active service.
Operation
The C-class fleet operates on major routes within Melbourne: