Helsinki’s rail network is expanding, and new trams are currently being built for the new light rail line. Crimppi and tram manufacturer Škoda Transtech have made an agreement on the supply of wire harnesses for all new trams. 29 light rail cars will be manufactured in Kajaani in the coming years.
Significant impact on staffing needs – new job openings
The production of tram wire harnesses has a significant impact on staffing needs at Crimppi’s factory in Vaasa. Crimppi is currently recruiting several new employees for various tasks. The company has also invested in new machinery to ensure efficient production.
“The wire harnesses and trams will be manufactured on the same schedule – the wire harnesses will be installed just before the interior upholstery. From the beginning, the cooperation has been close and transparent. We send goods to Škoda Transtech every day,” says Crimppi’s Sales Manager Teppo Haakana.
More than 250 wire harnesses are needed for one light rail car. The purpose of the wire harnesses is to electrify hundreds of different functions, such as the cabin, doors, stop buttons, lights, and so on. The range of wire harnesses required is also wide.
“We supply everything from the control panel’s small and thin wire harnesses to the thick electrical cables at the bottom and roof of the tram. The longest wire harnesses are the same length as the 10-meter tram,” Haakana states.
The deal supports Crimppi’s strategy of strong growth and responsibility
The new cooperation with Škoda Transtech, recruitment process, and investments in machinery support Crimppi’s strategy of strong growth. Both parties also have the same interests in terms of responsibility and supporting domestic work.
“Domestic work is important to us – we want to grow and employ people in Finland. We are also happy to be involved in building green public transport with Škoda Transtech,” says Crimppi’s General Manager Heli Toppinen.
Škoda Transtech is also pleased with the new cooperation with Crimppi.
“The beginning of our cooperation has been fruitful. Together, we will look for new solutions to improve the travel experience in the future as well,” comments Škoda Transtech’s Head of Sales and Product Family Development, Ollipekka Heikkilä.
The most advanced light rail cars on the market
According to Škoda Transtech, the trams that will be built for the new light rail line are the most advanced light rail cars on the market. They combine for the first time a multi-articulated structure and turning bogies. The trams are also designed to withstand the challenging Nordic weather conditions and rail networks with different rail profiles.
Škoda Transtech is the largest manufacturer of rolling stock in the Nordic countries. The company was founded in 1985. Škoda Transtech’s factory is located in Otanmäki, Kainuu, and the company’s main products are double-decker passenger coaches, low-floor trams, and workshop products. The company currently employs more than 650 people.
