It is an early morning. You open your eyes to the intrusive sound of an alarm clock, frowning in discontent. Half-asleep, you wander to the window, dreaming of the aroma of freshly-brewed coffee, and, the moment you open the window to welcome a new day, you suddenly hold your breath.
Sound! There are thousands of sounds! A car is rushing past your window, an old tram is puffing at the stop near the park, and a taxi driver is greeting a neighbour heading off on a journey along the Golden Ring.
Moscow never sleeps, Moscow is always in motion!
Modern Moscow is one of the fastest-growing metropolises indeed. It trully is a vibrant, energetic city, both serious and instilling a sense of tranquility. Up-to-date Moscow is a unique combination of various systems, which come together to form a city that is comfortable and pleasant for both living and leisure.
Which part of Moscow`s urban infrastructure is the most modern and fascinating? Where is there an opportunity to bring creative ideas to life?
The sound of the awakening city gives rise to the thought that Moscow public transport can become this creative platform. Actually, modern life is all about energy and movement, and movement is impossible without transport.
Capital`s Public Transport
The system of public transport in Moscow is known to be one of the most advanced and diverse.
"On land", Moscow offers all possible types of transport: an extensive network of buses, electric buses, trolleybuses, and trams, a renowned metro system, trains, suburban electric trains, and continuously expanding highways and cycling lanes, taxi and car-sharing services.
In December 2024, the total number of trips taken on Moscow’s public transport reached 15.76 million per day— what an incredible figure!
Moreover, both visitors and residents of the capital are embracing public transport more than ever, with 69% of all trips in 2024 made via these means of transport.
And what about water-based transport?
Moscow’s river transport system began developing in the mid-19th century. In 2020, it experienced a revival with the opening of the Northern River Terminal — the "Port of Five Seas" once again began welcoming passengers. However, Moscow’s authorities didn’t stop there and took an innovative approach — introducing year-round electric river trams in the city.
"Sinichka", "Setun", "Presnya", and Five Other Rivers
A one-of-a-kind project, not only in Russia but worldwide, was created and implemented in the capital. In 2023, Moscow launched the world’s first modern electric water transport, which makes travel more convenient for over 1.5 million people across 18 districts.
Each tram can carry up to 50 passengers, it features designated spaces for individuals with limited mobility, onboard information screens, USB charging ports, free Wi-Fi, and areas for transporting scooters and bicycles.
You can get acquainted with the tram now!
Undoubtedly, these river trams are a fantastic solution for a fast-paced metropolis. Not only do they enhance logistics, but they also benefit the environment—as electric transport produces zero emissions, ensuring that the Moskva River remains unpolluted. Additionally, the development of this new transport mode necessitates the revitalization of embankments along the tram routes, further improving the urban landscape.
Interestingly, the first eight vessels were named after Moscow’s rivers: Sinichka, Setun, Presnya, Filka, Skhodnya, Ramenka, Yauza, and Neglinka.
A New Look for the River Tram
As an essential and now integral part of the city's transport network, these comfortable and innovative electric river trams feature a modern design — clean lines emphasize practicality and dynamism, while a restrained color palette allows glass and metal to complement each other harmoniously.
However, in our opinion, despite their undeniable harmony, the trams lack cultural identity and fail to reflect the city's history and the country’s unique heritage.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if these elements of Moscow’s transport system reflected the city's rich culture?
For the new look of the river tram, we developed the following concept. Having analysed public surveys, we selected dearest to Muscovites and most fascinating to visitors landmarks. Then, these elements were merged into a unified design, projected onto the vessel`s body.
The key landmarks incorporated into our creative vision include:
1. The Spasskaya Tower of the Kremlin as a symbol of New Year celebrations, historical milestones, and deep respect for traditions. For centuries, the Spasskaya Gate was revered as sacred.
2. Lomonosov Moscow State University as a symbol of science and education, celebrating its 270th anniversary this year. As President Vladimir Putin noted that"Moscow University has always been the heart of Russian education and science".
3. Moscow City as a symbol of business life, modernity, dynamism, and innovation in the capital.
4. Saint Basil’s Cathedral (Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat) as a symbol of faith, peace, and beauty, as well as military victories. Commissioned in 1554 by Ivan IV (the Terrible), the cathedral commemorates Russia’s triumph over the Kazan Khanate.
5. The State Historical Museum as a symbol of culture and Russia’s rich history, established at the initiative of Emperor Alexander III.
Here is the result of our creative process – a re-designed 3D-model of the tram!
Behind The Scene Or Creative Process
Our creative process began with the search for a 3D-model of a river tram that would become a "platform" for creating a design. The model was placed in the Blender 3D-editor, and the references of the images of the sights were placed in the Inskape editor to outline them in a vector.
To prepare the model for rendering not only was a black box created, but also lighting was added and a camera was set up in order to take the final photos of the project and record a short animation.
Will this idea resonate with Muscovites and guests of the capital? Would they support this daring initiative?
We welcome your feedback! Share your thoughts, and remember that the greatest things are built from small details!