HK Tramways hands free rides on 18 August to celebrate Guinness World Records entry

Hong Kong Tramways is launching a Free Ride Day for all passengers in Hong Kong on 18 August, 2021 to celebrate that its the Guinness World Records awarded them the largest fleet of double-decker trams in service and the triumphant moments of Hong Kong athletes at the Olympic Games. 

Earlier this month, HK Tramways’ iconic tram system was awarded the Guinness World Records title of the “largest double-decker tram fleet in service." As of its 117-year-old today, HK Tramways now owns and operates 165 trams, carrying up to 200,000 passengers every day. Apart from the award ceremony held today, a series of city-wide celebrations such as a pop-up store and featured crossovers will be held.

“The double-deck system” refers to the tram system of running on gauge tracks with trolley poles and operating on a double-decker basis. Other examples of the double-decker are the UK Blackpool Tram and Egypt Alexandria Tram.

"Looking ahead, Ding Ding (nickname of Hong Kong Tramways) will continue to serve the community to make our heritage icon a collective pride of our city," the company said. 

Meanwhile, Hong Kong Tramways said the Free Ride Day coincides with the success of Hong Kong athletes at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Previously, several media reported that Hong Kong Tramways was planning to offer Hongkongers free tram rides for a week in August or September to celebrate the success. The company is also considering inviting athletes to have a parade in the city.

Trams are one of Hong Kong's iconic public transportation systems. Last month, Hong Kong Tramways was collaborating with Pantone Color Institute to create a new signature green shade that pays tribute to the Hong Kong Tram. Since the 1940’s, Hong Kong Tram has started furnishing the bodies of its self-built double-decker tram fleet with the dark green paint left in abundance at the wartimes. After a century of tramcar manufacturing with continuous innovations along the way, the famous green tone has become an icon of Hong Kong and secured its identity globally.

Celebrating the announcement of the “HK Tram Green”, HKT will join hands with Home and Lifestyle Retailer ISSHO46 to launch the first “HK Collection” with six colours collected from elements of the city, ranging from HK Tram, landmarks to local cultural icons. The collection comprises of loungewear (t-shirt), cup and coaster set will be launched.

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