Spain: a worldwide technological reference in public transport

Metro and tram networks have become the preferred modes of transport in Spain’s big urban centers. The country’s main cities have implemented modern underground lines as a response to the growing demand of fast and efficient mobility systems that can be adapted to the particular needs of all cities. This is why currently in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Bilbao or Palma de Mallorca, the metro network represents an efficient alternative to urban transit systems involving thousands of users.

The return of the tram: a mode of transport in demand

For more than two decades there has been a growing trend towards the reemergence of the tram, due to its innumerable environ – mental advantages and its integration in urban areas. Since its reimplementation in the 90s, tram networks have been integrated in many cities as a response to the growing necessity of combining mobility and sustainable development.

The first steps of this extensive network took place in Valencia in 1994 with the inauguration of the first modern tramway line. Nowadays, it is a 20.7km-line with a total of 43 stops with an average distance of 500m.

More than 160km of ongoing projects

Moreover, more than 10 tram and light-rail networks, currently in different study and development phases, will be built and added to the already operating ones throughout the country. These new projects represent 160km and could require an investment of approximately €2 billion.

Among them is the tram-train line between Chiclana, San Fernando and Cádiz, planned for 2012. It is a mixed system similar to the one in Alicante, especially advisable for lines connecting city centres with suburban areas.

During following years, the country’s tram network will be enlarged with lines in Granada, Málaga, and Lejona (Vizcaya) among others.

Also, such cities as Cartagena, Almería, Castellón, Jerez de la Frontera, Tarragona, Gijón, Vigo, León, Toledo, Salamanca and Córdoba, are studying the possibility of implementing this mode of urban transport for its innumerable advantages for both the citizens and the environment.

Metro: modern lines for 21st century cities

Nowadays the underground is the most developed mode of transport in Spain’s main cities: Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Sevilla and Valencia. All operating networks have been implemented over recent years as part of infrastructure plans carried out by regional administrations.

MAFEX industry – essential for development

Technological advances developed by the Spanish industry grouped in MAFEX, have greatly contributed to the reemergence of metro, tram, and light-rail networks as metropolitan transport modes. Such modern advances are also being used in many similar projects worldwide.

The rail industry associated to MAFEX has provided great innovations and new solutions to achieve modern networks, adapted to the needs of 21st century cities. Such advances have introduced significant advantages in terms of accessibility and comfort, safety, architectural integration in the environment, as well as important energy saving and environmentallyfriendly features.

Pioneers in technological advances, what the Spanish rail industry’s technological advances all have in common is that they comprehend all project phases, from engineering to civil works for the construction of the tram alignment, the rolling stock and the operation of lines.

The joint boost of railway technology developed in Spain has been essential in the implementation of the country’s several metro, tram and light-rail projects. One of the strongest commitments to R&D throughout the world, already been applied in similar and significant projects in Europe, America, Asia and Africa. In order to do this, the industry continues to promote its international spreading through such organisations as MAFEX.