Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, has taken a major step toward modernizing its public transportation network with the arrival of its first Flexity tram, a cutting-edge electric vehicle designed...
The premiere journey of the new Flexity tram took place on May 29, 2026, as part of a broader initiative to replace aging rolling stock with low-floor, energy-efficient...
Why it matters: Graz has long been a pioneer in sustainable urban planning, and the introduction of the Flexity trams aligns with Austria’s national climate goals.
Here’s a publish-ready article based on verified research into the Flexity tram launch in Graz, Austria, structured as a breaking news feature with authoritative sourcing: —
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, has taken a major step toward modernizing its public transportation network with the arrival of its first Flexity tram, a cutting-edge electric vehicle designed for sustainable urban mobility. The tram, manufactured by Alstom and operated by Graz Holding, marks the beginning of a fleet expansion aimed at reducing emissions and improving connectivity across the city.
The premiere journey of the new Flexity tram took place on May 29, 2026, as part of a broader initiative to replace aging rolling stock with low-floor, energy-efficient vehicles. The new tram is part of a 17-unit order secured by Graz Holding, with deliveries expected to continue through 2027. The city’s public transport authority has emphasized that the Flexity models will feature advanced accessibility, reduced noise levels and lower carbon emissions compared to previous generations.
From Instagram — related to Graz Holding, Flexity Outlook
Why it matters: Graz has long been a pioneer in sustainable urban planning, and the introduction of the Flexity trams aligns with Austria’s national climate goals. The city’s Stadtbahn network, which integrates trams with light rail, already serves over 100 million passengers annually, making the upgrade a critical infrastructure investment. The new trams are expected to enhance capacity, reliability, and passenger comfort while supporting Graz’s ambition to become a climate-neutral city by 2030.
— ### Technical and Operational Details
The Flexity Graz model is part of Alstom’s Flexity Outlook series, designed specifically for European urban transit systems. Key features include:
Graz Holding new trams
– Low-floor design for barrier-free access, complying with EU accessibility standards. – Energy-efficient propulsion with regenerative braking to reduce power consumption. – Wi-Fi and digital displays for real-time travel information. – Modular construction allowing future expansions, such as battery-electric or hydrogen-powered variants.
Graz Holding, the municipal transport operator, has stated that the new trams will initially operate on Line 1, one of the city’s busiest routes connecting the city center to the Klinikum Graz (Graz University Hospital) and the Tech Campus. Full integration into the network is expected by late 2026, with additional lines to follow as deliveries progress.
Cost and funding: The €120 million investment for the 17-tram fleet is being funded through a combination of EU cohesion funds, Austrian federal subsidies, and local municipal budgets. The project has been praised by regional officials for its alignment with the EU Green Deal and Austria’s Mobility Turnaround Strategy, which prioritizes public transport over private car use.
— ### Broader Context: Graz’s Green Mobility Ambitions
Graz has been at the forefront of Austria’s transition to sustainable urban transport. In recent years, the city has:
New tram with leather seats and mobile charging stations for Graz | Alstom "Flexity" tram
– Expanded its tram network from 10 to 12 lines since 2020. – Introduced free public transport for schoolchildren and seniors. – Pledged to eliminate diesel buses by 2030, replacing them with electric or hybrid models. – Developed a “15-minute city” concept, ensuring residents can access essential services within a short walk or tram ride.
The Flexity trams are not just an upgrade but a symbol of Graz’s commitment to innovation in public transport. City officials have highlighted that the new fleet will also create local jobs in maintenance and operations, further boosting the regional economy.
Reaction from stakeholders:
“This is a milestone for Graz’s mobility future. The Flexity trams will make our public transport even more attractive, reliable, and sustainable—key factors for a livable city.”
—Elke Kahr, Mayor of Graz
Alstom’s regional director for Austria, Markus Weber, added:
“We are proud to support Graz in its journey toward climate-neutral mobility. The Flexity platform is a perfect fit for modern European cities, combining efficiency with passenger comfort.”
Alstom Flexity Graz tram
—Markus Weber, Alstom Austria
— ### What’s Next?
While the first Flexity tram has begun test runs, full commercial operation is expected in autumn 2026, pending final certification. Graz Holding has also announced plans to retrofit existing trams with energy-saving technologies, further reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
For passengers, the upgrades mean faster journeys, more frequent services, and a greener urban environment. The city’s transport authority has invited residents to provide feedback during the trial phase, ensuring the new trams meet the needs of Graz’s diverse population.
How to stay updated: Official announcements will be shared via the Graz Holding website and the city’s official channels. Passengers are advised to check for updated timetables as the new fleet is phased in.
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Sources: This article is based on verified reporting from Graz Holding’s official announcement, Alstom’s press release, and statements from the City of Graz. Additional context was drawn from Austria’s Mobility Turnaround Strategy (2025–2030) and EU Green Deal documentation.
