Metrolink New Rolling Stock

TfGM is preparing to procure a new fleet of high floor light rail rolling stock to support the renewal of the fleet and future development of the Metrolink network. The procurement will seek a capable manufacturing partner to design, manufacture, test, commission and support the introduction into service of the new tram vehicles for tram and tram-train operation, including the provision of associated technical documentation, training, spares and whole life support (non-exhaustive).

Metrolink is the largest light rail network in the UK, patronage is at record levels and work is underway to renew, add capacity and expand the reach of the network to more parts of Greater Manchester. The Metrolink system currently comprises a fleet of 147 trams, over 100 kilometers of track and overhead line, 99 stops, 2 depots and growing patronage of over 46.6 million passenger journeys per annum (March 2026). Metrolink is the largest light rail network in the UK.

This Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) exercise will allow for a better understanding of the marketplace's capabilities in delivering the new rolling stock for Metrolink.

This is the first of two planned preliminary market engagements (should sufficient detail be provided during this first market sounding TfGM reserve the right not to proceed with the second preliminary market engagement) and initially will be to understand market appetite and capability. (As noted Metrolink trams are high floor and interested parties responding to this first notice should have the appropriate manufacturing capability).

Participation in this PME is voluntary, and this exercise is entirely separate from any subsequent procurement activity. Participation or non-participation in this market sounding will not affect the opportunity for suppliers to participate in any subsequent procurement and will not form part of any procurement assessment or selection process.

Similarly, this exercise is not a commitment or indication by TfGM of an intended procurement approach to the market.