The first Urbanliner tram has entered service on Berlin’s M4 line, marking a major milestone in the modernisation of the city’s tram fleet.
Berlin’s public transport operator BVG has officially introduced its first Urbanliner tram into passenger service, marking the beginning of a new generation of high-capacity trams designed to support the city’s growing transport network.
The first 50-metre-long tram entered regular service on 15 July following the completion of testing and final infrastructure works. Operating initially on the busy M4 route, the new vehicles are expected to increase passenger capacity while improving accessibility and comfort.
Minor infrastructure modifications around Alexanderplatz were completed before the launch, including the installation of additional tunnel supports as part of the approval process. Following these upgrades, the tram was cleared to begin carrying passengers.
Henrik Falk, Chief Executive Officer of BVG, said: “With these new vehicles, we are ensuring that, following the underground, the tram fleet is also well-equipped for the coming decades.”
He added: “The Urbanliner is yet another visible sign that we are consistently investing in modern vehicles and high-performance infrastructure for Berlin.”
Larger trams for a growing city
The Urbanliner can carry more than 300 passengers and replaces older GT6 trams operating as double sets on the M4 line. Additional vehicles are scheduled for delivery throughout the remainder of 2026, with around 15 expected to be in service by the end of the year. The fleet is forecast to double by 2028, while all 65 trams currently on order are due to be delivered by 2030.
Designed and manufactured by Alstom, the new trams introduce several passenger-focused improvements, including adaptive interior lighting, enhanced ride quality through a redesigned chassis and LED door indicators to improve boarding and alighting.
Accessibility has also been prioritised. The vehicles include larger multi-purpose spaces for wheelchair users and passengers with pushchairs, dedicated priority seating, tactile handrails for visually impaired passengers and improved step-free boarding through an additional gap filler.
The Urbanliner is also the first BVG tram to operate without exterior mirrors, replacing them with camera systems that provide drivers with improved visibility while reducing blind spots. An obstacle detection assistance system further enhances operational safety.
Christoph Klaes, Vice President Customer Management for Central and Northern Europe at Alstom, said: “This new generation of trams combines high performance with greater comfort and accessibility. It has been specifically designed to meet Berlin’s growing mobility needs.”
Reflecting changing passenger behaviour, the Urbanliner no longer includes onboard ticket machines. Instead, BVG has expanded ticket sales outlets along the M4 corridor while noting that most passengers now purchase tickets digitally or travel using subscription products such as the Deutschlandticket.
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