Transdev subcontracted Alstom Transport to maintain the Reims, France tramway for a 30-year period, beginning as soon as the tram goes into service.

This contract, worth approximately $120 million, involves the maintenance of rolling stock and fixed installations and includes routine, preventive and corrective maintenance; technical support; management of spare-parts stocks for the Citadis tramsets and the implementation of a major maintenance program.

It also involves maintaining the track and platforms, track installations, power supply and distribution equipment, catenaries, ground-level power-supply system (APS) and other electromechanical installations in first-rate condition.

Moreover, Alstom Transport is a 17 percent shareholder in the MARS consortium and also represents the construction consortium. Alstom is providing a turnkey solution for the Reims tram project involving the design and production of rolling stock and all electromechanical systems, comprising 18 Citadis tramsets plus the rail track, signaling, electrical supply, catenaries and ticketing for the metropolitan area's transport system.

Reims' Line 1 will be equipped with a ground-level power supply (APS system) in some areas, technology that allows the tram to operate safely with a catenary-free system to preserve the city centre's traditional appearance.

Reims' Citadis trams are currently designed and assembled at the La Rochelle plant. Five other sites will also be involved in manufacturing the trams. The Reims tram will go into operation in April 2011.