Braking Energy Turned into Heat – Lumikko Equips Tampere’s New Longer Trams with Advanced Climate Control
Tampere Tramway is expanding its fleet as new, longer trams will enter service starting in 2027. Lumikko will once again ensure passenger comfort by supplying air-conditioning units and energy-efficient heating technology for the new trams.
Škoda Transtech Oy will deliver seven new 47-metre-long ForCity Smart Artic X34 trams for Tampere Tramway. In addition, 10-metre extension modules will be added to the existing 37-metre trams, increasing total passenger capacity by up to 30%.
Lumikko’s delivery includes air-conditioning units for both the driver’s cabin and passenger compartments, a braking energy recovery system, and windshield blowers.
”The climate control system has performed reliably in all conditions. Our passenger satisfaction ratings remain above four out of five across the board, so it’s a proven solution we’re happy to continue using in the new fleet says Mika Luutikivi, Fleet Manager at Tampere Tramway.
Mika Luutikivi, Rolling Stock Manager at Tampere Tramway Ltd, is pleased with the air-conditioning system supplied by Lumikko. Photo: Tampere Tramway Ltd.
The system developed by Lumikko utilizes energy generated during braking to heat the trams. Each tram saves around 74,000 kWh of electricity per year – enough to heat four large electric-heated detached houses for a year.
“It’s a genuinely energy-efficient and field-proven solution that makes a difference for both the environment and the city’s operating costs” explains Ville Saikkonen, Director of Product Development and Technology at Lumikko.
Lumikko has extensive experience in air-conditioning systems for rail transport. Every tram currently operating in Finland is equipped with Lumikko’s air-conditioning units.
”It’s a great honour to be part of Tampere Tram’s next development phase. Our long-term cooperation with leading industry players is a strong sign of the quality and reliability of our solution ”, says Lauri Latvala, CEO of Lumikko Oy.
Lumikko is a Finnish family-owned company founded in 1970, designing and manufacturing air-conditioning and thermal-management systems for demanding environments – including trams, trains, electric work machines, and the defence industry.
