The problem that caused Newcastle's new light rail vehicles to break down twice in the network's first week won't be an issue in Canberra, despite the vehicles being made by the same manufacturer.
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Within 36 hours, two trams on Newcastle's new network broke down last month because of charging issues on the line, forcing back-up trams to be brought in to minimise disruptions.
While the manufacturer of the Newcastle trams, Spanish-based company CAF, was also behind the trams for Canberra's upcoming light rail, transport officials said the vehicles would not be subjected to similar issues when the network becomes operational.
A Transport Canberra spokeswoman said although the vehicles on both networks were identical, the networks were markedly different and the charging issues that plagued Newcastle would not be a problem in the capital.
"The Canberra light rail system differs significantly to the Newcastle system," the spokeswoman said.
"The main difference is that Newcastle is using a wireless traction and charging system, but we are using a fully wired system.
"Canberra's trams have been tailored for our specific needs."
CAF declined to comment on the Newcastle light rail breakdowns or Canberra's vehicles.
Although Canberra's overhead wires will prevent similar breakdowns to those in Newcastle, plans are in place in case a tram breaks down here for other reasons.
The Transport Canberra spokeswoman said if there was a breakdown in the ACT, the first priority would be the safe removal of passengers from the vehicle.
"The most appropriate option for passenger transfer would be contingent upon a range of factors including the location of the vehicle, proximity to a light rail stop, time of day and weather conditions," the spokeswoman said.
"Response procedures and protocols are designed to ensure the safety of passengers, staff and the public and minimise disruptions to light rail services."
In the event of a breakdown, a response team would be implemented to make sure the tram involved was able to return to the depot with minimal impact.
However, the spokeswoman said there was no set response timeframe for crews performing that work because it was dependent on passenger numbers and the location of the tram.
"Protocols for light rail vehicle recovery would be implemented that would include direct and ongoing communications between Canberra Metro operations, Transport Canberra traffic light signalling and police in a co-ordinated effort to ensure the vehicle would be recovered," the spokeswoman said.
It was announced on Friday the light rail network would become operational in April, pending final approvals, with the first service to be on a Saturday.
