First new modern low-floor tram arrives in Osijek after 43 years

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Osijek has officially welcomed its first new low-floor tram in over four decades.

The TMK 2500, produced by KONČAR – Electric Vehicles, was unveiled on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the city’s public transport modernisation.

The tram, measuring 20.8 metres in length, can accommodate 135 passengers and is equipped with modern technology, making it fully accessible for people with disabilities.

Following a test period, it will begin operating on Osijek’s upgraded tram tracks.

Osijek Mayor Ivan Radić described the day as historic for the city, highlighting that Osijek introduced its first horse-drawn tram 141 years ago and its first electric tram 99 years ago.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

“The value of this tram is €2.3 million. This is the first of ten trams we have ordered, with deliveries expected to be completed by September this year. The total investment amounts to €23 million. The new tram is six metres longer than the previous one, offers 135 passenger spaces compared to 110, and has 44 seats, doubling the 22 seats in the old model,” said Mayor Radić.

He added that modernising the tram infrastructure, a project worth €45 million launched in spring 2022, was essential for integrating new trams. He also thanked residents for their patience during the construction works.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

“This is just the beginning. In addition to these ten low-floor trams, we have an agreement in place for ten more. With support from the Croatian Government and the Ministry of Transport, we aim to expand our fleet to 20 new trams, fully meeting the city’s public transport needs,” Radić added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić stressed that this development was part of a broader transformation in Osijek, built on years of strategic planning and collaboration between the city, ministries, and Osijek-Baranja County.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

“This partnership has changed how Osijek is perceived. A decade ago, the outlook was much more negative. The mayor and his team have worked tirelessly for the benefit of Osijek and its residents, and I congratulate them on their success,” said Anušić.

Ivan Paić, board member of KONČAR – Electrical Industries, emphasised that the new tram is not only visually striking but also aligns with green transition principles.

“KONČAR is not just a producer of trains and trams; we also contribute to energy infrastructure development, essential for sustainable public transport. We are proud to support Osijek in modernising its transport network and setting an example for other cities in Croatia. Osijek is a city of youth, education, and vibrant life, and we believe these new trams will become part of its daily rhythm,” said Paić, adding that KONČAR will deliver the remaining trams by the end of the year.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Director of Osijek’s public transport company GPP, Darijan Rudan, highlighted the tram’s deep-rooted significance in the city’s identity and thanked all involved in the project’s realisation.

“Today is a major step forward for Osijek, GPP, and our employees, but above all, for the residents of Osijek. This is the first new tram purchased in 43 years, and we can all be proud of this historic moment,” said Rudan.

State Secretary Žarko Tušek expressed confidence that Osijek would acquire all trams outlined in the framework agreement, crediting the city’s leadership and its cooperation with the national government.

“The investments made in Osijek are remarkable. The city is now full of life, with numerous infrastructure, cultural, social, and sporting projects that position it as a leader in regional development,” Tušek stated.

MP Nataša Tramišak noted the city’s ongoing commitment to modernising infrastructure.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

“We see construction projects everywhere, and this tram infrastructure upgrade is one of the largest. Public transport is vital, and I extend my congratulations to everyone involved in making this project a reality,” she said.

Acting Osijek-Baranja County Prefect Mato Lukić also praised the project, acknowledging the city’s progress.

“We all remember the old Czech trams that served us well for many years. However, trams don’t drive themselves—behind them are dedicated drivers and maintenance staff at GPP, whom I want to thank. Osijek is transforming, and more people are recognising its growth. The city is no longer just a regional hub but a model for other towns and municipalities in Croatia,” said Lukić.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Mayor Radić concluded by emphasising the tram’s importance in Osijek’s past, present, and future.

“The tram is part of our identity. Today, it has made history again. It’s also a part of our daily lives and will continue to be integral to Osijek’s future. There’s no shortcut to progress—we move forward step by step, just as we have for the past 1,082 days of tram infrastructure modernisation. Today marks the beginning of the future of public transport in Osijek,” said Radić.