Exterior and interior design of the new Flexity Tram

Award-winning, sustainable tram design for Zurich

The sleek overall design of the Flexity tram is reminiscent of an open-plan pavilion with expansive windows – an architectural style typical of Zurich. Inspired by Zurich’s tram shelters of the 1930s, the full-height window panels offer sweeping views of the passing city and create a unique sense of space.

High-quality materials enhance the Flexity and create an impression of superior durability. Attentive details such as USB charging points and hooks for bags on the seats add additional comfort. 

A LED passenger guiding system, which is visible from afar, is integrated into the tram’s exterior design: it lights up white when the doors are open and changes to orange before the doors close.

The Flexity Zurich was awarded the internationally renowned Red Dot Design Award and nominated for the Design Preis Schweiz.

Swissness and VBZ brand values

“Swissness” and communicating VBZ's brand identity were both important criteria for the design process. The shape of the VBZ logo was the inspiration for the design around the front and rear lighting. The rounded white band creates a strong level of association between the trams and the VBZ brand.

Ergonomically shaped seating made from sustainable, hygienic beech wood conveys VBZ’s core values of safety, cleanliness and reliability, and pays homage to the Mirage tram from the 1960s.

Safe and environmentally friendly thanks to innovative technology

The Flexity meets the highest safety standards thanks to the use of innovative technology. It features an ODAS driver assistance system; an automated obstacle detection system that increases safety for passengers, drivers and other road users. 

The Flexity demonstrates exceptional energy efficiency. Braking energy is channeled back into the grid and used for the tram's requirements. The innovative occupancy-driven air conditioning system uses little electricity and operates with the latest carbon neutral coolant. In winter, the Flexity is heated using air source heat pumps.