The government-backed deal will be financed by the European Union at up to 99.3% of the purchase value.
Of the initial order, 25 LRVs will be between 32 and 36m long and the remaining 12 vehicles 52-56m long, but the two types need to be similar in construction. However, the shorter version must be offered in two variants, one being a hybrid design with an energy-storage system to keep the vehicle moving for a short distance in the event of a power failure. The standard-gauge, 600V dc vehicles need to be bi-directional and air-conditioned, with a maximum width of 2400mm and a low-floor area covering 100% of the vehicle. They must also be fitted with CCTV.
Tender documents must be submitted by April 3. During the evaluation of the bids, the purchase price will account for 62% of the available points with the rest awarded for energy consumption, number of seats and doors, seat width, materials used, axleload, cost of the energy-storage system, and penalties for delays.
The first vehicles will be shipped by the end of 2014 and the remainder by the third quarter of 2015. The 37 LRVs will be used on BKV tram lines 1, 3, 19 and 61.
