Gross-Lichterfelde Tramway

[1] Werner von Siemens had presented the first electric 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 the Prussian military academy (Hauptkadettenanstalt) at Lichterfelde West.

Each car was originally equipped with a 180-volt DC 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-day model railways.

It is also believed that, in order to enjoy the sight of glowing metal, young people caused short circuits by putting wire mesh on the tracks, which shut down the operation.

[citation needed] In 1891, the tramway was equipped with an overhead wire, and the line was extended to Berlin-Lichterfelde West station.

Lichterfelde tram, 1882
Track map
A photo of a plaque raised in Lichterfelde, Berlin, Germany, to mark the world's first electric streetcar line. The plaque is located on a stand near the Lichterfede Ost Railway Station in Berlin, Germany.