Siemens Mobility’s S700 streetcars, delivered to the Charlotte Area Transit system (CATS) in the U.S., are now in revenue service.

The streetcars feature a battery storage system and can run wirelessly. The six new S700 streetcars join Charlotte’s current light rail fleet of 42 S70 light rail vehicles.

“We are delighted to once again partner with Charlotte to help them meet their growing mobility needs by delivering our market leading streetcar platform that incorporates the most innovative and intelligent technologies available,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility. “Sustainable transportation is one of the most important features for growing cities. Our battery hybrid vehicles provide CATS and its passengers with an energy efficient mobility solution that not only improves the overall availability of transportation, but also offers a comfortable ride and enhanced passenger experience.”

Each streetcar features a hybrid wireless technology allowing the vehicle to run both on and off-wire via an Onboard Energy Storage System (OESS). The OESS includes an expandable and modular design that can be updated as battery technology evolves.

The vehicles operate at speeds up to 25 mph and they can carry approximately 195 passengers.

The new streetcars also include large passenger windows for increased visibility, improved passenger safety through an interior surveillance system, and an unobstructed floor concept that allows more space for bicycle storage and wheelchairs.

In addition, the operational performance enhancements of the new streetcars include traffic light preemption, a pedestrian-friendly front mask, and an automatic passenger counter with enhanced 3D infrared sensor technology.

The streetcars were ordered in late 2016 when the Charlotte City Council chose Siemens Mobility to build six new S700 Streetcars for CATS.

The streetcars for Charlotte run on the second phase of the CityLYNX Gold Line, replacing the legacy green and yellow trolleys currently in operation. The new phase adds 2.5 miles to the Gold Line, expanding it to 4 miles in length and adding 11 new stops.