Hitachi Rail and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) have entered into a long-term partnership to support the future of the region’s Supertram network through a new 15-year Technology Partner Framework Agreement.
The deal designates Hitachi Rail as SYMCA’s strategic technology partner for the Supertram system, with the aim of delivering modern, digitally enabled upgrades that improve both passenger experience and operational performance.
Supporting South Yorkshire’s transport vision
The framework forms part of SYMCA’s broader ambitions to futureproof the region’s light rail infrastructure and enhance connectivity across South Yorkshire. Following the transfer of tram operations into public ownership in 2024, SYMCA has committed to a programme of investment focused on long-term renewal.
“Supertram is a key component of the South Yorkshire public transport network,” said Tom Howard, SYMCA’s Director of Transport Development and Capital Delivery. “Since operations returned to our control last year, we have set out a programme of investment to ensure the system is fit for the future.”
Howard added: “This strategic partnership with Hitachi will ensure we can work collaboratively to harness the latest technology from an internationally experienced supplier in the Light Rail sector, delivering real benefits for our passengers over the lifetime of the framework.”
Commitment to local investment
The agreement will initially focus on systems that improve timetable reliability and provide enhanced real-time passenger information. According to Hitachi Rail, this early phase will pave the way for further modernisation of core Supertram systems.
Andy Bell, Vice President and Managing Director of Ground Transportation Systems at Hitachi Rail UK, described the deal as a long-term commitment to the region: “This 15-year partnership represents more than a contract. We’re bringing together our globally proven technologies, transformational delivery expertise, and local presence in South Yorkshire to help deliver a stronger, smarter Supertram network.”
Hitachi Rail currently employs over 200 staff in Doncaster and said the agreement is expected to generate further opportunities for local jobs, skills development and regional supply chain engagement.
Upgrading for reliability, innovation and growth
The partnership aligns with SYMCA’s wider transport strategy, which seeks to create a world-class public transport network while supporting regional economic growth and decarbonisation goals.
Under the framework, Hitachi Rail will lead the renewal of key Supertram systems, introducing innovations designed to enhance service reliability and passenger satisfaction. The upgrades will include modern digital infrastructure aimed at improving operations and journey predictability.
Mark Smalley, Sales and Business Development Director at Hitachi Rail, said the company’s goal is to transform public transport experience in the region: “Our partnership with SYMCA will help modernise the Supertram systems and deliver real, tangible benefits for passengers.”
He continued: “This is about more than just replacing old systems; it’s about transforming how people experience public transport in Sheffield and South Yorkshire. This framework enables us to introduce innovation and deliver long-term value to a network that’s vital to the region’s future.”
Building a future-ready supertram
Supertram has been a core part of South Yorkshire’s public transport network since its launch in 1994, serving Sheffield and surrounding communities. The system comprises three tram lines across the city and beyond, playing a key role in connecting residents with jobs, education, and services.
With the Technology Partner Framework now in place, SYMCA and Hitachi Rail will begin working jointly on delivering the first wave of upgrades, which are expected to be visible to passengers in the coming years.
The partnership is intended to support the delivery of SYMCA’s wider transport strategy, focused on building “a cleaner, greener, healthier, wealthier and happier South Yorkshire.”
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