Working to the philosophy of “simplexity”—a theory that proposes a relationship between complexity and simplicity—French designer Ora ïto created a concept for the Nice rail that will run on the new east-west line through the mediterranean city.
In conjunction with Alstom, a multinational company focused on rail transport, the designer was able to bring to life a complex technology in a simple way for the residents of the historic city. Between 30 November 2015 and 31 January 2016, the inhabitants voted to choose a design out of three propositions. The chosen design got a 44 percent majority of votes.
To minimize its impact on the city, the trams will charge through the ground instead of overhead with the usual contact lines. The exterior will be a reddish ochre color, to match the exteriors of emblematic 17th century buildings like Place Massena and the Musée Matisse, integrating itself to the city’s landscape while preserving its architecture.
The aesthetics of the tramway weren’t the only aspect taken in consideration. The trams will offer a renewed passenger experience with 40% more windows compared to the previous generation in circulation on Line 1, LED lights and large individual seats. Accessibility will be increased via double doors throughout the length of the tram, which will also increase the passenger exchange ratio in stations by 20%. The tramway consumes the least amount of energy and each of the planned 19 vehicles accommodates up to 300 travelers.
This is just one part of the city’s long-term vision for 2030, which includes a rail network and the integration of all transport methods in the metropolitan area. The first trams are due to be delivered in the summer of 2017, and implemented the following year. The future of Nice’s tramway network is now set and residents and visitors will soon enjoy traveling in comfort and style, and knowing they’re doing their part in protecting the environment in the Cote d’Azur.
This article was written by Marielle Castillo from PSFK and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network.
