The first passenger trip of the new three-section tram model 71-233A, developed by "Sinara-Transport Machines" (STM), took place in Yekaterinburg. The car made a circle on route No. 18 and completed the trip without technical problems, confirming its readiness for controlled operation.
Previously, the tram had undergone test runs without passengers and received a certificate of compliance. The new rolling stock is designed for 308 people, including 70 seats, and has a 100-percent low floor, a spacious interior, and wide doorways.
According to passenger reviews, the car holds steady on the rails, although no noticeable improvement in ride smoothness or sound insulation compared to previous models has been noted yet. At the same time, the modern layout and increased body length are noted - almost three meters longer than the usual "Kastor" trams.
Among the comments is the operation of the "Project-A" information system, which incorrectly displayed the direction of travel and stop announcements. Experts call it "outdated and inconvenient" and suggest refining the interface and routing algorithms.
Engineers and users of specialized communities also drew attention to the non-rotating middle bogie - a design solution designed to increase stability, but so far causing controversy in terms of maneuverability. Despite some shortcomings, no serious technical failures were recorded during the trip.
Tram 71-233A became Sinara's first fully own project in the field of urban electric transport. It was first presented at the "Innoprom-2024" exhibition. The production of prototypes has been established at the Yekaterinburg plant "Remputmash". The project is being implemented after the termination of cooperation between STM and the Czech company Škoda Transportation in 2022.
