The bidirectional standard-gauge vehicles will need to be capable of operating on the hybrid tram/light rail line to Amstelveen and must meet the latest standards for passengers with reduced mobility.
The vehicles will also need to be able to cope with short steep gradients, a common feature of the Amsterdam network where tram lines cross canals. Previously GVB has used the canal bridge at Roeterstraat to test low-floor trams due to the steep gradients on the approaches to the bridge and the presence of a sharp curve at this location. These tests proved certain types of low-floor LRVs were not suitable for use in Amsterdam.
GVB expects to select a preferred supplier by the end of next year and the new fleet will enter service from 2020.
