Back in 2008 Melbourne’s tram network was overflowing with passengers, so Yarra Trams turned to a different tactic to address it – they imported five secondhand trams from France to expand their fleet.
Known as the ‘C2’ class trams in Melbourne, these five-section Alstom Citadis 302 trams were originally built for the French city of Mulhouse, but were surplus to their requirements. In 2008 Yarra Trams leased the trams for four years at a cost of $9 million, until were purchased by the State Government in 2012.
In the years since, the harsh Australian sun started to fare the special ‘Bumblebee’ livery.
Vandals scratched the windows to within a inch of their lives, making the glass look more frosted than clear.
The decals on the site also became tattered following repeated graffiti attacks.
Finally in July 2014, something was done about the decrepit look of the ‘Bumblebee’ trams when Public Transport Victoria started to roll out their livery to the fleet of five.
In a nice touch, the ‘Bumblebee’ name has been retained at each end.
When repainting things Public Transport Victoria walks a fine line between polishing turds and keeping things fit for purpose – at least this time the work wasn’t an attempt to distract the public.
This scratched glass issue really gives me the shits. Most trams have a protective film on the windows now which should be replaced when it gets scratched – but they never do it.
I believe the trains fleet also has a film applied as well, but as you say – you have to spend $$$ to replace it.
For comprehensive window scratching, Perth buses take the award, or they did when I was there a couple of years ago.
Melbourne’s buses are really scummy looking when you head past the rear door – presumably that is where the scrotes hang out.
Windows scratched to within an inch of their lives, graffiti evidence on panels – reminds me of a ride on most suburban train these days! In the past the SIemens trains behind the drivers cabs were the worst, but more recently the X’Trapolis sets are catching up fast!
At least the rest of the fleet isn’t catching up on the level of filth found on Siemens seats!
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