Press Release: Pilsen is home to Škoda Group, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of public transport vehicles—and it’s also the birthplace of the longest tram in the world. A total of twelve nearly 60-metre-long trams are being produced here, and now the first Škoda ForCity Smart 38T from series production is ready to depart for the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan area. This unique vehicle is part of a fully modular fleet designed to meet the diverse demands of German operator Rhein-Neckar-Verkehr GmbH (rnv), which provides public transport in Mannheim, Heidelberg, and Ludwigshafen.
“The longest tram in the world (Škoda ForCity Smart 38T) is a result of close collaboration with rnv to create a vehicle that meets the complex demands of both urban and regional transport. Its modular design, high capacity, and passenger-friendly features make it a key element in shaping the future of mobility in the Rhine-Neckar region. With more than 20% of its components sourced from Germany, this project also highlights strong European cooperation in sustainable public transport,” stated Jan Christoph Harder, President Region West & North Škoda Group.
To put things into perspective, Škoda ForCity Smart 38T tram is almost double longer than blue whale, longest animal in the world. Inside, 72.4 km of cables power its advanced systems, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. And with a capacity for up to 368 passengers, it’s a true game-changer in urban mobility—offering plenty of space for commuters while maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride. Building a tram of this scale takes time—each Škoda 38T requires 18 weeks to produce, while its smaller counterpart, the 30m Škoda 36T is completed in 9 weeks.
A New Era of Public Transport
The Škoda 38T is part of a large-scale contract with rnv, covering 114 trams in three sizes:
- 30m Škoda 36T
- 40m Škoda 37T
- 60m Škoda 38T
These trams are built for adaptability—with the ability to couple into formations up to 80 metres, they are ideal for varying passenger needs. If all 114 trams were lined up, they would stretch an incredible 4.2 km. Each tram is a showcase of European engineering, built from hundreds of thousands of parts sourced from 214 suppliers across Europe.
From Finland to Pilsen, and Beyond
The journey of each tram begins in Otanmäki, Finland, where the rough carbodies are produced, before final assembly takes place at Škoda Group’s facility in Pilsen, Czech Republic.
Designed for both tram and railway operations across three federal states, these trams run on a 1,000 mm gauge and reach a top speed of 80 km/h. Their low-floor, bi-directional design ensures smooth rides, while barrier-free access, dedicated spaces for wheelchair users and parents with prams, and extra-wide double doors make boarding effortless. Equipped with the latest passenger information systems and onboard cameras, they set a new standard for comfort, efficiency, and safety.
With the first Škoda 38T now heading to Germany, the future of public transport is not just longer—it’s smarter.
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