Electric river tram sea trials and fleet deployment in Moscow

Sea trials underway in harsh winter conditions are a crucial step for any electric vessel, and the same diligence is being applied to electric river trams intended for use in major cities. The testing regime emphasizes performance in low temperatures, with careful attention to how cold weather affects battery efficiency, propulsion systems, and overall reliability. In parallel, the technology is being refined to suit real-world operation, including maneuvering drills that stress turning radii and precise mooring at berths. These exercises are essential not only to prove capability but also to validate passenger comfort, crew safety, and safe separation from other river traffic. Once key performance indicators have been established, a more in-depth evaluation of passenger cabins and onboard systems follows, ensuring that all amenities meet expected standards across varied weather and water conditions. Electric river vessels are being constructed under a contract with Passenger Port OJSC, a unit within the Vodokhod group, with oversight from the Moscow Ministry of Transport to ensure strict compliance. The project includes the recruitment and training of captains who will operate the Russian electric river trams, with a rigorous internship and selection process designed to guarantee high professional standards before taking charge of a vessel. The initial captain, Aleksey Zyuzkevich, participates in the current sea trials, demonstrating the hands-on leadership that guides the entire program. Across the fleet, aspiring captains undergo comprehensive assessments to certify readiness for day-to-day responsibilities on the river, reflecting a broader commitment to safety, reliability, and consistent service. Maxim Liksutov, who leads the Moscow Ministry of Transport, has emphasized the strategic importance of the project as a core element of the city’s transit expansion. The contract calls for the delivery of 21 electric river vessels manufactured in Russia, with the first nine slated to arrive within the year. The plan aligns with a broader objective proclaimed by the Moscow administration to offer residents and visitors a more comfortable and convenient river transit experience. Active sea trials are already underway to validate performance, comfort, and quiet operation, with the expectation that the entire fleet will deliver a reliable and eco-friendly transport option. The agreement governs both production and long-term operation over a 15-year horizon, underscoring a lasting investment in sustainable urban mobility while addressing urban noise, emissions, and energy efficiency concerns thathold relevance in Canadian and American environments as well.