Alstom was awarded a contract to supply sub-systems to modernize Italy’s Milan-Desio-Seregno suburban tram by Cooperativa Muratori e Cementisti (CMC) of Ravenna — an Italian construction company.

The approximately $65 million contract includes the design, supply and installation of the tracks, electrical traction sub-stations, signaling and telecommunications system. The line is due to enter into service by the end of 2016.

During the duration of works, Alstom will limit inconvenience for local residents and passengers thanks to its use of Appitrack. Four times faster than conventional systems, Appitrack reduces on-site working times and consequently, inconvenience for local residents.

Alstom will also equip the line with the Hesop technology, the latest generation reversible sub-station that enables unused braking energy produced by the trams to be re-injected into the electricity distribution network. Hesop is particularly suited for trams and allows for the recovery of around 99% of braking energy.

Alstom will also supply the signaling system, which will be completed by an automatic train supervision system to guarantee complete safety and security of passengers and provide better control of traffic circulation for the operator. In addition, this supervision system will help to identify anomalies such as items left in critical areas thanks to intelligent high definition cameras.

The project will be managed by the Alstom Guidonia site. This site is specialized in designing and producing railway infrastructure systems. It collaborates closely with Alstom’s center of excellence for railway signaling in Bologna.