That is because they are indispensable to multimodal transport networks, seamlessly integrating with a city’s metro, bus, and train systems. This integration not only expands travel options but also enhances connectivity between neighbourhoods, delivering substantial social and economic value.
At Keolis, we excel in managing and maintaining multimodal transport networks, with trams playing a central part in this work, ensuring we can offer seamless passenger experiences. Our expertise allows us to design tailored mobility solutions that meet the specific needs and financial scope of each town, city, or region – providing a smart solution to meet the demands of modern cities.
Our unparalleled success in supporting the development, operations, and maintenance of these networks is evident in cities like Lyon, Bordeaux, Dijon, and Lille in France; Newcastle, Australia; and both Manchester and Nottingham in England, to name a few.
With urban populations on the rise, connectivity has never been more crucial. In 2023, cities were home to 57 per cent of an average country’s population, and by 2050, it is projected that 70 per cent of the world’s population will reside in cities. This upward trend underscores the importance of enhancing urban connectivity to accommodate growing populations, making forward-thinking planning essential for future social prosperity.
So where to begin? Keolis leads the way in planning and developing integrated networks, with trams at their core.
Cutting edge insights
Keolis gains a deep understanding of evolving transport needs through its Keoscopie mobility think tank. Keoscopie provides valuable insights into current lifestyles, helping us create next-generation mobility solutions. This knowledge is further enhanced by data collected by Hove, a Keolis digital company. Hove produces intelligence that our teams use to innovate and develop attractive, integrated transport solutions.
At Keolis we have also established a Centre of Excellence for trams, which connects our global experts, in support of PTAs at every stage of a project’s lifecycle. This partnership ensures continuous improvement in our tram systems, helping us maximise their integration within our networks.
The perks of a tram
The tram’s appeal lies in its comfort, capacity, and user-friendly nature, serving as a handy option for those looking to transition effortlessly to soft modes of getting around like bikes or scooters. This versatility consistently appeals and draws in new customers.
To fully capitalise on the system’s popularity, Keolis has worked closely with PTAs to ensure that their tram operations provide a complement to local bus networks – even where it may only be a single mode provider. This is crucial because certain bus routes are able to mirror tram standards in terms of frequency and quality and provide critical connectivity to wider areas beyond the city’s limits.
This coordination means riders can easily switch between modes and provides an opportunity for better social cohesion between city and suburbs.