C class Melbourne tram

History

Following the privatisation of Melbourne's tram system the private operators acquired new trams to replace the Z-class trams. Following a six month tender process, it was announced in October 2000 that Yarra Trams would purchase 36 three section Alstom Citadis 202 low-floor trams. They were the first low-floor trams in Melbourne, and the first tram imported for the Melbourne tram system since the 1920s.

The design was adapted by Alstom for local conditions, with the first four trams arriving at Webb Dock on 10 August 2001. Following fit-out and testing at Preston Workshops, they entered service on 12 October 2001. The last arrived on 25 June 2002 and entered service on 30 August 2002. All C-class trams initially operated on route 109.

Criticisms

The Citadis trams have been criticised by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU), who claim they have operations problems, including injuries to the drivers relating to design. There were concerns raised in 2011 regarding the external cameras fitted to the trams. Despite Yarra Trams replacing the cameras a number of times, there were visibility issues at night and in high glare situations. These problems had been solved by July 2012.

They have also been described by the RTBU as "cheap as chips", following allegations that swaying and lateral forces at "speeds above 25 km/h" were causing driver injuries. Yarra Trams responded by stating that they were addressing the issue by offering drivers lumbar support, and that track renewal had improved ride quality, reducing sway, while Yarra Trams had previously changed to controls to avoid wrist injuries.

Operation

C-class trams operate from Kew tram depot and are used on the following routes: