Siemens History

The world’s first electrically operated streetcar, one of Werner von Siemens' major innovations, was inaugurated 140 years ago on May 12, 1881 in the Berlin suburb of Gross-Lichterfelde. The 2.5-kilometer-long line connected the Lichterfelde station with the military academy.  From the first day of regular service the streetcar was a great success: it transported 12,000 passengers in its first three months alone. But the development of this milestone of urban transport didn't go according to plan. 

It is still in use today – the Budapest subway line, which bears the name M1 on the Hungarian capital's metro network. For the locals it is simply the "little underground one". Constructed by Siemens & Halske, it has made history, since it is the first electrical powered underground line on the European continent, serving as a model for other subway projects. After a construction period just short of two years, the 3.75 km long line with its total of eleven stops was inaugurated on May 2, 1896. 

Presenting to the world: Siemens will once again show off innovative products and solutions at the 2021 Hannover Messe, which will take place in digital format for the first time this year. This is also reflected in the name of the event: Hannover Messe Digital Edition. Join us on an exciting trip back across seven decades of trade show history, and see how the face of Siemens has changed – from the early days to today.