Hanshin Engineering is expanding its presence in the future transportation infrastructure market by launching the Ulsan hydrogen electric tram project, following the successful Wirae Tram initiative, which is Korea's first tram project.
On May 14, Hanshin Engineering announced that it has signed a contract with the city of Ulsan for the Ulsan Urban Railway Line 1 hydrogen electric tram project and has begun construction on the initial phase.
The Ulsan Urban Railway Line 1 will connect Taehwa River Station to Sinbok Intersection, covering a total length of 10.85 kilometers with 15 stations. The project has a total budget of approximately 381.4 billion won, with a target completion date set for the end of 2029.
This project will utilize Korea's first 'wireless hydrogen electric tram' system. By employing hydrogen fuel cells for operation without overhead wires, the environmentally friendly system aims to reduce carbon dioxide and fine dust emissions while minimizing urban landscape disruption.
The hydrogen electric tram can travel over 200 kilometers on a single charge. With its low noise and high-efficiency system, it is gaining attention as a model for future urban railways. The hydrogen fuel cells produce almost no pollutants during electricity generation, contributing significantly to the transition to eco-friendly, low-carbon cities.
Previously, Hanshin Engineering demonstrated its construction capabilities by breaking ground on the Wirae Tram project in April 2023, which is the first urban tram demonstration project in Korea. This urban railway project spans 6.1 kilometers, connecting the Machon and Bokjeong stations in Seoul's Songpa District.
According to the Seoul Construction Notification, the Wirae Line urban railway is currently 94.81% complete, with most of the track and station construction finished. The project is expected to undergo signal system installation and trial operations, with phased openings scheduled for the second half of 2026.
Major municipalities are actively pursuing tram projects, including Daejeon's Urban Railway Line 2, Busan's Port Line tram, Jeju's hydrogen tram, and Yangsan's urban railway. Notably, the Daejeon Urban Railway Line 2 construction project recently received a budget increase of 10 billion won after passing a review in the National Assembly last year, raising expectations for market contracts.
Hanshin Engineering is recognized for its competitive edge, having direct experience in Korea's first tram demonstration project. The company has accumulated practical urban construction experience, project management expertise, and knowledge in traffic control and citizen safety management.
A representative from Hanshin Engineering stated, "Based on our experience in executing Korea's first tram project, we aim to set a new standard for tram and light rail projects nationwide, including in Ulsan."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.