DOHA: The Siemens Avenio tram for Doha, commissioned by Qatar Foundation (QF), has been honoured with the iF Design Award 2018. Siemens developed the prize-winning design with “Yellow Window” design agency, after being commissioned in 2012 by the Qatar Foundation to deliver a turnkey tram system for Doha. The Avenio will operate completely without overhead contact lines on an 11.5-kilometer route in QF’s Education City.
Commenting on the award, Ghanim Al-Ibrahim, Executive Director, Capital Projects Directorate, QF, said: “We are delighted to see Doha’s new tram system receive international recognition for its state-of-the-art design.
Sustainability is at the forefront of our agenda at QF; it is at the heart of all we do, from renewable energy initiatives to green buildings to healthy living programs. The tram system is pivotal to QF’s goal of transforming Education City into an environmentally-friendly ‘smart-city’ with reduced carbon emissions, and dramatically improving the lives of residents.”
The trams are equipped with Siemens’ Sitras HES hybrid energy storage system that quickly charges during station stops. The tram’s operation without an overhead contact line opens up new perspectives for vehicle design and will have a positive impact on the urban landscape. Siemens will be delivering a total of 19 three-section trams to Doha.
“The Avenio’s timeless and futuristic design ideally complements the modern architecture of Doha. The tram’s planned operation without overhead contact lines makes the Avenio a model for sustainable rail rapid transit,” says Sabrina Soussan, CEO of the Mobility Division at Siemens.
Clean lines, generous white surfaces and darkened windows characterise the tram’s exterior. The interior has a bright and airy ambience, while special sun shades on the roof and tinted insulated glass maintain comfortable interior temperatures.
