Skoda Transtech claims new Helsinki trams cause building vibrations

Skoda Transtech has issued a claim regarding the new Stadler trams selected by Kaupunkiliikenne Oy for the Helsinki metropolitan area. The company alleges that the new trams, which feature a full low-floor design known as ‘stepless seating’, cause significant vibrations and noise that can shake buildings.

According to Skoda Transtech, the lack of adequate suspension under the seats due to the low-floor requirement causes these issues, particularly on meter-gauge tracks like those used in the capital region. The company notes that this phenomenon has been observed in several other European cities.

The procurement of 63 new trams is intended to replace aging fleets and support the expansion of light rail in Vantaa and Western Helsinki. This project has been the subject of a long-standing dispute; Skoda Transtech was previously excluded from the tender for submitting a non-compliant bid and has since accused the transport authority of favoritism. While previous legal challenges by Skoda have been dismissed by the Market Court and the Supreme Administrative Court, the company continues to challenge the technical specifications of the procurement.