CityLYNX Gold Line streetcar opens for passenger service

The Charlotte Area Transit (CATS) CityLYNX Gold Line streetcar opened for passenger service Aug. 30. 

The streetcar will operate every 20 minutes from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., seven days a week. The service will be fare-free until January 2022. 

The phase 2 project extended the existing streetcar tracks by 2.5 miles on the east and west ends of the line, connecting the Historic West End to the Elizabeth neighborhood through uptown Charlotte. 

With the opening of the line, CATS will operate a fleet of five Siemens Mobility S700 modern streetcar vehicles. Designed with advanced hybrid technology that features an innovative battery storage system, these new streetcars run wirelessly through the heart of the city, maintaining a catenary-free zone in the city’s central business district, while offering all the same sustainability benefits as when operating with overhead wires.  

“We are delighted to once again partner with Charlotte to help them meet their growing mobility needs by delivering our market leading streetcar platform that incorporates the most innovative and intelligent technologies available,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility. “Sustainable transportation is one of the most important features for growing cities. Our battery hybrid vehicles provide CATS and its passengers with an energy efficient mobility solution that not only improves the overall availability of transportation, but also offers a comfortable ride and enhanced passenger experience.” 

Each streetcar features a hybrid wireless technology allowing the vehicle to run both on and off-wire via an Onboard Energy Storage System (OESS). The OESS includes an expandable and modular design that can be updated as battery technology evolves. The battery-storage and energy-saving technology was first demonstrated in San Diego and allows the battery to recharge when the vehicle is connected to the overhead catenary system. The vehicles operate at speeds up to 25 mph and can carry nearly 195 passengers. 

The new streetcars also include features that enhance the overall riding experience such as large passenger windows for increased visibility, improved passenger safety through an interior surveillance system, and an unobstructed floor concept that allows more space for bicycle storage and wheelchairs. In addition, the operational performance enhancements of the new streetcars include traffic light preemption, a pedestrian-friendly front mask and an automatic passenger counter with enhanced 3D infrared sensor technology. 

The streetcars were ordered in late 2016 when the Charlotte City Council chose Siemens Mobility to build six new S700 Streetcars for CATS. The vehicles were built at the Siemens Mobility rail manufacturing hub in Sacramento and all have been delivered. 

CATS is urging those who drive, walk, bike or live near the streetcar alignment to become familiar with the rules of streetcar safety. While in service, the streetcar will continue to utilize horns and bells to communicate with pedestrians and motorists. Motorists should obey all parking signage. 

Over the next several months, the project contractor will continue to complete punch list items including roadway and sidewalk work. The punch list work isn’t anticipated to impact streetcar operation.