A brand new £40 million fleet of larger and quieter trams will start running on the Midland Metro line from next month, it has been announced.
The four new 'Urbos 3' trams, which will commence service on September 5 on the line between Snow Hill to Wolverhampton, are part of a 20-strong fleet being introduced over the next few months.
These trams, made by Spanish firm CAF, are a third bigger than the existing Ansaldo Transporti models and will carry 201 passengers compared to 156 at present.
West Midlands transport chief Roger Lawrence said: "The Midland Metro has a key role to play in providing the transport connections we need to help our region grow and prosper.
"That's why the introduction of these new trams and the forthcoming extensions are such good news for the economy as well as for passengers who can now look forward to a more frequent and comfortable service."
Next year will see the opening of the Midland Metro extension to New Street, while further extensions are now being developed to Centenary Square and Five Ways and Eastside and Digbeth after receiving funding.
A bid for funding for a Wolverhampton Interchange extension has also been submitted to Government.
This week on the free Birmingham Post iPad and iPhone app: Preview of new theatre season; Profile of book about skater John Curry; British Science Festival special supplement; Tasty treats from city's street food scene as well as daily breaking news. Download it here.
