The APS system operates through a third conductor rail installed on the track. Credit: Alstom.

Barcelona’s tramway has made the first Spanish deployment of Alstom‘s APS catenary-free technology, enhancing the city’s sustainable transport infrastructure.

The technology was installed on a new 2km extension, expected to carry an additional 24,000 passengers daily.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

This development aligns with Barcelona’s broader strategy for eco-friendly, accessible, and equitable urban development.

The Barcelona Metropolitan Transport Authority (ATM) has launched the commercial service of this extension, utilising Alstom’s APS system.

This technology, managed by Alstom’s teams in Madrid and Barcelona, allows trams to operate without overhead catenary wires, maintaining performance while enhancing the urban landscape.

The APS system operates through a third conductor rail installed on the track, powering the trams in segmented sections that activate and deactivate as the tram passes.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

This ensures safety for pedestrians and road users while maintaining tram autonomy even during extreme weather or unexpected incidents.

Globally, Alstom’s APS technology is in use across 11 cities on four continents, with more than 370 trams travelling over 150km of track. As of July 2022, these trams have covered 58 million kilometres using the APS system.

The Barcelona tramway project’s first phase aims to connect Barcelona’s two tram networks, Trambaix and Trambesos, with a 3.9km link featuring six new stops.

This connection will not only improve city mobility but also support Barcelona’s carbon footprint reduction by encouraging the shift from private vehicles to public transport.

The project has also led to significant urban improvements, including new cycle lanes and green spaces.

Barcelona’s tramway, launched in 2004, comprises two separate systems, Trambaix and Trambesòs, with a combined length of 29.22km and 56 stops.

Annually, the network transports over 30 million passengers, with 41 Citadis trams in operation, making it the highest-rated public transport service by users (EMEF 2023).