SGP Type U: Vienna U-Bahn Rolling Stock

Simmering-Graz-Pauker Type U The Type U, also known as the “Silver Arrow,” refers to the first generation of Vienna Underground trains. Manufactured by Simmering-Graz-Pauker from 1972 to 1997, these trains became the backbone of Vienna’s Underground network. They operated across the entire system, powered by a third-rail system. The classification includes U, U1 (or U11), and U2 variants. The successor generation is the Type V, which entered production in 2000. Since June 2023, the remaining U1/U11/U2 trains have gradually been replaced by the new Type X trains built by Siemens. Overview The trainsets consist of double motor cars, meaning two permanently coupled electric multiple-unit cars, each with a driver’s cab at one end. The smallest operational unit consists of one double motor car. A short train consists of two double units, while a long train consists of three. However, the short-train configuration was abandoned as passenger numbers increased, and Vienna‘s network subsequently operated uniformly with six-car trains consisting of three double units. The two cars in a double unit are not identically equipped. Components such as the switching equipment, compressor, battery, converter and other systems were distributed between the two cars to ensure proper weight distribution. Externally, the difference can be identified by the car numbers: one 2000-series car and one 3000-series car form a double unit. In 1986, an upgraded generation of trains appeared: the Type U1, later known as U11. These trains are almost identical in appearance to the original vehicles. They featured completely redesigned bogies with radially adjustable axles, as well as a state-of-the-art three-phase AC drive for each individual axle, including the necessary power electronics. This also made regenerative braking possible. Characteristics Manufacturer: Simmering-Graz-Pauker AG (SGP) Assembly: Vienna (Austria) Years of production: 1972—1997 Length: 36,800 mm Width: 2800 mm Height: 3600 mm Track gauge: 1435 mm Passenger capacity: 280 (98 seats) Electric systems: 750 V DC Max speed: 80 km/h Weight: 56 t See also Transport blog See also Cars blog See also Motorcycles blog See also Buses blog See also Shipbuilding blog See also Motors and Engines blog See also Trains and railways blog See also Trucks and Cargo Vehicles blog See also Tractors and Special Equipment blog See also Tanks and Armored Vehicles See also Airplanes blog See also Helicopters blog See also Artillery, Missiles and Rockets blog See also Bicycles blogThe post SGP Type U: Vienna U-Bahn Rolling Stock first appeared on All PYRENEES.