A new generation of Stadler low-floor trams is set to enter passenger service in Halle (Saale), Germany with the first “short TINA” tram receiving formal commissioning approval.
During a press event at the Freiimfelder Straße depot, Saxony-Anhalt infrastructure minister Lydia Hüskens formally handed the approval for the first MGT-M tram, known as the “short TINA,” to Hallesche Verkehrs-AG (HAVAG).
HAVAG has ordered 56 TINA low-floor light rail vehicles from Stadler
© Stadler
The vehicle had already been granted operating authorisation by the Technical Supervisory Authority. The commissioning permit enables regular use on the network and confirms compliance for the remaining trams of the same design.
Dr Lydia Hüskens, Minister for Infrastructure and Digital Affairs of the State of Saxony-Anhalt, said:
With official approval, the way is now clear for the new generation of trams to go into service in Halle. They stand for greater accessibility, increased comfort and future-proof public transport. All in all, this is a clear plus for attractive local transport and thus also for the people of Halle.
HAVAG has ordered 56 low-floor trams from Swiss manufacturer Stadler Rail. The order includes 39 vehicles in the 30.4-metre M version and 17 longer XL vehicles measuring 45.4 metres. Additional trams are scheduled to enter service during 2026 as deliveries continue.
The M version approved for service provides 64 seats and space for 103 standing passengers. It has a fully step-free interior with a floor height of 350 millimetres and an entrance height of 290 millimetres. Wide doorways and open areas are intended to accommodate wheelchairs and prams.
Dr Alexander Vogt, Mayor of Halle (Saale), said:
The TINA trams are a real asset for the city on the Saale. With the first ‘short TINA’, modern mobility is visibly coming to the rails – more comfortable, more accessible and ready for the demands of a growing city. This project stands for long-term reliability and strengthens our urban public transport system. Today’s approval steps provide tailwind for the entire series – and thus for the consistent modernisation of our HAVAG fleet.
The trams are equipped with air-conditioning, passenger information displays and driver assistance systems. Cameras replace exterior mirrors, and LED lighting is fitted throughout the passenger compartment.
The longer XL variant will offer 96 seats and capacity for 173 standing passengers.
Ansgar Brockmeyer, Executive Vice President Marketing & Sales at Stadler said:
Today’s launch signal for the first short TINA is the result of strong cooperation. From the signing of the contract in 2022 to the design and manufacture to the successful approval this year. My thanks go to the teams at HAVAG, Stadtwerke Halle and our colleagues at Stadler, who worked closely together in every phase of the project. With the TINA platform, we are bringing a new generation of vehicles to the rails that are precisely tailored to the requirements of urban transport in Halle with their accessibility, open space concept and modern driver’s cab.