Today FNM S.p.A. and Stadler Rail signed a framework agreement for the supply of diesel-electric trains for the regional railway service. Delivery of the first 30 units to Ferrovienord is expected in 2021. 20 more are optional.
The contract signing follows after Stadler was announced the winner of the tender issued by FNM last year. The Framework Agreement, with a duration of 8 years, contemplates the supply of diesel multiple units (DMUs) that shall be used on non-electrified lines. The guaranteed minimum quantity is 30 trains, while the maximum is 50. The price per unit is EUR 6,395,000. The Framework Agreement also envisages first-level scheduled maintenance service and corrective maintenance for acts of vandalism and accidental events.
First call-off
At the same time as the signing of the Framework Agreement, Ferrovienord, a 100% subsidiary of FNM, also signed the first call-off for 30 trains for an amount of over EUR 190 million. The delivery of the first trains, including the time for construction and approval, is envisaged by 2021.
“The aim remains that of ensuring the best service for the 750,000 people who use the regional railway service every day. The particularly innovative specifications of these diesel-electric trains will ensure quality and performance standards among the best in Europe.” – said Andrea Gibelli, Chairman of FNM
Technical characteristics
The 66.8 meter-long bidirectional 3-car trains offer space for 328 passengers, 168 of whom are seated, and are designed for a maximum speed of 140 km/h. They will be equipped with a toilet, LED lighting, Wi-Fi, 220 volt power sockets, USB ports, a passenger information system, cameras for video surveillance and a lighting assistance system that indicates door opening and closing. Accessibility for people with reduced mobility is made easier by sliding platforms that compensate for the gap between the doors and the platform. There are also parking stations for bicycles.
Each unit will feature a ‘power pack’ with two latest-generation, low-emission diesel engines (stage V with SCR catalytic converter) that power two sets of batteries. Thanks to the batteries and the diesel-electric traction, the trains can travel along suburban tracks with reduced emissions and zero emissions in the stations, also providing supplementary power during acceleration. The position of the engines at the center of the train also ensures great comfort for passengers: noise and vibrations are not transmitted to the carriages. The electric start-up in stations also enables noise and emissions reduction.
