Description
The Tatra T3 is one of the most important trams in urban-transport history. About 14,000 cars were built, making it the second most produced tram in the world — only the Soviet KTM-5 was built in greater numbers. Its timeless design and simple engineering shaped public transport in Eastern Europe for decades.
Mass production
Simple construction, reliability and easy maintenance made the T3 the standard urban tram in Eastern Europe. Over more than three decades about 14,000 cars were built, mainly for Czechoslovakia, the Soviet Union, East Germany and other Eastern Bloc countries. Only the Soviet KTM-5 was produced in greater numbers.
Specifications
- Top speed: 55 km/h
- Power: 350 hp
- Price: 15 iron tokens
- Capacity: 28 people
- Running cost: 2 coins
- Multiple units: yes
- Era: 5–7
- Hi-poly: 9854 triangles
- Low-poly: 497 triangles
T3 appearance
The Tatra T3 has elegant body curves, rounded corners and a front with two round headlights. Inside are wooden benches and iconic plastic grab handles. Despite the simple look it was an advanced car, with Škoda Plzeň electrical equipment and a bogie that gave a smooth ride.
T3 modernizations
Many T3 cars have been withdrawn, but a large number were rebuilt in the 1990s and after 2000. Types such as T3R.P and T3M extended their life into the 21st century. Today the T3 is a symbol of cities such as Prague, Brno and Ostrava, and an inspiration for modellers and transit fans.
Low-poly model
Here is the Tatra T3 in low-poly form. Game models must keep the triangle count low, but the interior remains for a better in-game feel.