Installation of catenary systems: west extension of Strasbourg tramway line F

Publié le 15 July 2025

By the end of 2025, Strasbourg will take another step towards more sustainable mobility with the opening of the western extension of tram line F. This new 4 km section will connect the municipalities of Eckbolsheim and Wolfisheim to the heart of Strasbourg, improving services for more than 20,300 residents.

ETF is leading the construction of tracks and installation of catenary systems thanks to its recognised expertise in the railway sector. Following the inauguration of track laying work in August 2024 and the completion of more than 200 track beds by GTM TP EST, our catenary experts have been working since November 2024 to lift more than 200 overhead contact line (OCL) supports and roll out 9 km of OCL. The catenary work currently involves 18 employees. At this stage, two-thirds of the project has already been completed and delivery is scheduled for the end of August 2025.

Hybrid vehicles serving the ecological transition

Since 2023, ETF has been investing in hybrid machinery for its catenary worksites in order to balance operational performance and environmental friendliness. On the western extension of line F, two Skyrailer hybrid aerial platforms are being used to limit pollution and reduce the carbon footprint.

These machines offer many benefits: reduced noise pollution, lower CO₂ emissions, lower energy consumption and exclusive use of HVO 100 biofuel, which is more environmentally friendly.

This choice is a concrete illustration of ETF’s environmental commitment to offering cleaner and quieter mobility solutions that meet the expectations of local residents.

Professional integration at the heart of the project

Beyond technical and environmental performance, ETF is committed to professional integration and the transfer of expertise. Since work began on the catenary system, three people have been recruited through professional integration programmes and are now fully integrated into the teams on site. This approach promotes local employment and skills development for people who are distant from the labour market.

ETF is proud to contribute to this strategic project for the expansion of the tram network in Strasbourg, providing more sustainable, efficient and environmentally friendly transport solutions.