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TheGross Lichterfelde Tramway was the world's first commercially successfulelectrictram and first public electric tramway used for permanent service. It was built by theSiemens & Halske company inLichterfelde, a suburb ofBerlin, and went in service on 16 May 1881.[1] The world´s firstoverhead wires were installed in 1883.[2]
Werner von Siemens had presented the firstelectric passenger train at the Berlin industrial exhibition two years before. In order to develop the concept, he received the official approval to run an electric tramway line on already existing tracks, which had been used for building thePrussian military academy (Hauptkadettenanstalt) atLichterfelde West.
The 2.4-kilometre-long (1.5 mi) line started atBerlin-Lichterfelde Ost station on theAnhalt Railway line. Each car was originally equipped with a 180-voltDC 4 kW (5.4 hp)traction motor, the current being supplied via the running rails, in a manner similar to that used by most present-daymodel railways. Therefore, the1,000 mm (3 ft 3+3⁄8 in)metre gauge tracks were generally separated from roads, and trespassing was prohibited.
Atlevel crossings, the rails were dead or switched on only briefly before the approach of the tramcar. Nevertheless, people and horses frequently received electric shocks. It is also believed that, in order to enjoy the sight of glowing metal, young people causedshort circuits by putting wire mesh on the tracks, which shut down the operation.[citation needed]
In 1891, the tramway was equipped with anoverhead wire, and the line was extended toBerlin-Lichterfelde West station. There were several further extensions, but operation was discontinued in 1931.
52°25′40″N13°19′32″E / 52.42778°N 13.32556°E /52.42778; 13.32556