Completion of delivery of MiNiN trams to Nizhny Novgorod — an event of August 2026, when, as part of the urban electric transport renewal programme, all 170 next-generation tram cars were delivered to the region.[1] The programme has been recognised as the most ambitious of its kind among non-capital Russian cities.[4]

Composition of the delivery and production

As part of the public transport development programme, Nizhny Novgorod received 144 standard-class cars and 26 extra-large-class cars.[2] The final three cars arrived in late August 2026.[4]

Serial production of trams and electric buses under the MiNiN brand was organised by LLC "JV Nizhekoтrans" within the framework of cooperation between Nizhny Novgorod Region and the Republic of Belarus.[3] The cars feature a modern design that accounts for the needs of all passenger categories, including those with limited mobility.[4] The name "MiNiN" simultaneously symbolises the partnership between Minsk and Nizhny Novgorod, and alludes to a native of the Nizhny Novgorod land — Kozma Minin, one of the leaders of Nizhny Novgorod Militia.[2]

Modernisation of tram infrastructure

In parallel with the delivery of the cars, the city is carrying out Nizhny Novgorod tram — nearly 150 km in single-track terms.[2] By August 2026, more than 120 of the 149 km of track had been replaced.[4] Work in Upper Part has been completed; in the Zarechka area it is planned to finish in 2027.[3] On the upgraded sections, travel speeds on certain routes increased by 64%, and passenger traffic grew by 32%.[4]

The programme is being implemented under the national project "Infrastructure for Life".[4]

Production prospects

At a working meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, held on 28 August 2026 Nizhny Novgorod Fair, Gleb Nikitin reported on the fulfilment of the tram renewal plan.[2] Putin enquired about the prospects for retaining the enterprise's workforce after the completion of the Nizhny Novgorod order.[4] Nikitin stated that the region intends to offer MiNiN trams and electric buses to other constituent entities of Russia, and is also developing a prospective line of wheeled public transport.[3]

Sources

  1. Zhivyom v Nizhnem — Gleb Nikitin reported to Vladimir Putin on the fulfilment of the tram renewal plan — Zhivem v Nizhnem
  2. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" — Nizhny Novgorod completes delivery of all 170 new MiNiN trams
  3. Vremya N — Nikitin: the tram renewal plan in Nizhny Novgorod has been fulfilled
  4. Newsroom24 — Nikitin reports to Putin on completion of tram renewal in Nizhny Novgorod