Keolis started operating Aarhus’ new tram network, the first light rail project in Denmark, on the east coast of the country. In June 2015, Aarhus Letbane, the local transport authority awarded Keolis a contract to operate the network for a period of 6 years, with a potential extension. The contract, worth €50 million, ($59.97 million) is emblematic for Keolis as it strengthens its leadership in tram operations as well as its presence in northern Europe.
The initial network covers a 12 kilometer loop around the city and serves 12 stations. It will be extended to another 98 kilometer as part of two additional stages which will be integrated throughout 2018 to serve 51 stations outside the city. The 12 kilometer tram network will provide a connection to two regional rail lines. The fleet of 14 trams and 12 tram-trains, made by Stadler, will carry around 40,000 passengers per day. Once the full network is open, the 12 tram-trains will be able to run at speeds of up to 100 kilometer/hour outside the city.
Keolis International CEO, Bernard Tabary, said: “We are happy to start operating the Aarhus light rail network after some weeks of intense collaboration with the Danish agency in charge of transport in Denmark. Over the past three years, we have worked closely with the Municipality of Aarhus in order to deliver a reliable, comfortable, environmentally-friendly and safe mode of transport to Aarhus residents and the surrounding community. This new tram line will certainly enhance the attractiveness and liveability of the city and encourage its residents to use more public transport. We are fully committed to working constructively with all stakeholders to make this project a success for both our client and passengers.”
Keolis has been present in Denmark since 2007, with operations in more than 10 cities across the country. With its 1,500 employees, the Group operates a fleet of 500 buses in addition to the vehicles for the new Aarhus tram line.
This new network consolidates Keolis’ multimodal expertise, and confirms its status as a global leader in tram operations. The Group operates 75 lines and 1,300 trams over more than 800km of track in France, the United Kingdom, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Canada and Australia.
