Brno launches tender for up to 40 high-capacity trams

Brno launches tender for up to 40 high-capacity trams

October 19, 2026

Brno’s public transport operator, Dopravní podnik města Brna (DPMB), has launched a tender for the purchase of up to 40 bidirectional, high-capacity trams.

According to the notice published on 13 October 2026, the estimated value of the framework agreement is EUR 144 million (CZK 3.6 billion), excluding VAT. Based on these figures, each tram is estimated to cost CZK 90 million (EUR 3.6 million). The actual number of vehicles delivered will depend on the orders placed under the agreement, which provides for a maximum of 40 units.

The deadline for submitting tenders is 19 November 2026, and bids must be submitted electronically.

The procurement procedure is being conducted as an open procedure and covers the delivery of vehicles that must meet the technical requirements set out in the tender documentation.

The contract will take the form of a four-year framework agreement, with subsequent orders placed without reopening competition between the tenderers.

Bidirectional trams equipped with modern systems

The procurement covers high-capacity, bidirectional trams designed to operate in both directions without requiring the vehicle to turn around at the end of the line.

The sole award criterion is price. Tenders will be assessed on the basis of the lowest proposed price for one high-capacity, bidirectional tram, excluding VAT.

The new trams must be equipped with modern passenger information systems, electronic ticketing and automatic passenger counting systems. They must also comply with the technical and operational requirements of Brno’s public transport network.

The contract also provides for the supply of two sets of diagnostic equipment, including software and free updates for 15 years, specialist maintenance tools and free training for at least 20 of the operator’s employees following delivery of the first tram.

The guaranteed operational lifespan of the trams must be 25 years under urban operating conditions, based on an average annual mileage of 60,000 km.

It is worth noting that Brno’s public transport operator has ordered 40 ForCity Smart 45T bidirectional trams from Škoda Group, with the first vehicles entering service in December 2022.

In December 2023, the operator exercised an option for a further 15 trams of the same type to replace KT8 vehicles manufactured in the 1980s and 1990s. These trams were valued at EUR 45.7 million, with each vehicle costing EUR 3 million.

The trams are 31 metres long and can carry more than 233 passengers, including 64 seated passengers. Their maximum operating speed is 70 km/h.