A new unique tram, 71-665, has been launched in Yekaterinburg. However, along with the innovations, unexpected difficulties have arisen — the launch of the tram has sparked heated discussions among citizens and revealed shortcomings in the city's infrastructure.
A new five-section tram, 71-665, the longest in Russia, accommodating over 400 passengers, has been put into service in Yekaterinburg. It is equipped with modern amenities: air conditioning, a contactless payment system, and validators. The free passage between sections ensures convenience even during peak hours.
The tram's operation has revealed a number of technical and organizational issues. Due to the length of the car, it does not fit at existing stops — some doors end up outside the platforms, and passengers have to step onto the lawn or move to other doors. The mayor's office has promised to extend the platforms, but in places where this is technically impossible, passengers will have to adapt.
A discussion has arisen among residents: some citizens believe that instead of one long train, it would be more practical to purchase several trams of standard length — this would allow serving more routes. The opposite view is due to the shortage of drivers and the uniqueness of the new model: the tram is not only technologically advanced but also prestigious for the city.
It is planned that Yekaterinburg will receive a new batch of trams at the end of 2025 — this time, three-section ones.
UKVZ notes that the fully low-floor 71-665 is designed specifically for main routes in large cities with increased passenger traffic.
Read more on the topic:
Russia's First Five-Section Tram 71-665 with Two Cabs Arrived in Yekaterinburg
Premiere: Testing of Russia's First Five-Section Tram UKVZ 71-665 Begins in Yekaterinburg
High-Speed Tram Model 71-952 "Voevoda" 37.5 Meters Long Presented at INNOPROM-2025 Exhibition
