Helsinki trams could soon have a uniform green and yellow colour scheme under a proposal being examined by the Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL). The planned change would bring the city’s different tram designs under one visual identity, but repainting the entire fleet is estimated to cost around €1.2 million.
HSL has commissioned a study to examine whether all trams operating in Helsinki should adopt the green and yellow colours already used on older vehicles serving the city’s main routes.
At present, Helsinki’s tram fleet has several different colour combinations. Older trams are painted green and yellow, while newer fast trams feature turquoise. Some other vehicles use a green and white design. The differences reflect the development of the city’s tram network and the introduction of newer models.
The study will examine how passengers feel about the existing colours and whether they would support a single green and yellow design across the fleet. It will also consider practical issues, including passenger safety and how easily people can recognise trams.
HSL is working with Finnish brand and design agency Bond on the study, which is expected to cost approximately €30,000.
While the research itself represents a relatively small expense, implementing the proposed change would require a considerably larger investment. HSL estimates that repainting the trams would cost around €1.2 million.
The decision will ultimately rest with HSL’s board, which is expected to consider the proposal in January. Until then, the authority will use the study findings to assess whether a unified colour scheme would be worthwhile.
The proposal comes as Helsinki residents are also facing planned public transport fare increases, adding another financial consideration to discussions about changes to the city’s transport system.
