Bombardier selected by Deutsche Bahn to supply new TALENT trains
02 February 2007 10:34
Bombardier Transportation has been selected by Deutsche Bahn AG (DB) as the favourite supplier for the electric multiple unit platform framework agreement following a Europe-wide invitation to tender. The planned agreement is based on 321 trains at an estimated total of €1.2 billion (US$1.6 billion), making this one of the largest framework agreements in the history of DB AG.
Bombardier Transportation participated in the tender with the new generation of TALENT trains. Once deployed, the new TALENT 2 fleet will join Bombardier double-deck trains and TRAXX locomotives (DB Class 146) as the backbone of DB's regional transport service in Germany. The entire vehicle fleet will be developed and manufactured at Bombardier sites in Germany.
Deutsche Bahn announced its tender decision today. Contract signing is expected to take place in the near future. The new TALENT trains are scheduled to be deployed on regional lines throughout Germany starting in 2009.
André Navarri, president of Bombardier Transportation, said, "With the TALENT 2, we are paving the way for future regional and suburban transport, not only in Germany but across Europe. The new train incorporates leading-edge design concepts that offer unparalleled flexibility and modularity. That translates into real competitive advantage for operators like DB that face a European market characterized by growth and liberalization."
"We are pleased that our concept for the new generation of electric regional trains meets the high requirements of DB AG", said Klaus Baur, head of Bombardier Transportation Germany. "It is geared towards meeting the different expectations of regional transport customers with regard to comfort, safety, modern design and short travel times in the densely populated areas and regions of Germany. This long-term framework agreement is of utmost importance for securing jobs in our German sites."
Stéphane Rambaud-Measson, president of mainline and metros, Bombardier Transportation, added, "We see DB's decision as special recognition of the added value the new generation of TALENT trains brings to their operations. What we are providing here is a modern train concept - rooted in modularity and flexibility - that can adapt to increasingly diverse needs of rail service operators. For our customers, this means a wide range of potential applications and enhanced ability to meet growing demand from passengers."
TALENT 2 multiple units can be configured variably to create two-car trains or trains with as many as six cars. Propulsion power options can also be selected, depending on the number of driven axles. Additionally, the vehicles can be adjusted to operate on different voltage systems prevalent in the European rail network (15kV AC, 25kV AC or 3kV DC). Access heights of 598mm or 800mm can accommodate different platform levels. Once placed in service, the trains can be continuously re-configured to fit changing needs.
Flexibility is also an important feature for TALENT 2 internal fittings. Individual components, such as extra toilets or doors, can be added at the operator's convenience. Number and arrangement of seats can also be changed, along with the number and size of multi-purpose areas. With a high level of acceleration and up to two swing-plug doors on each side of the car, the TALENT 2 offers the ideal solution for rapid regional and suburban transport. In addition, the new trains meet the safety requirements of tomorrow, being fully compliant with the future European crash norms.
TALENT 2 is advanced proven design of Bombardier's popular TALENT product family, which has more than 450 trains in service in Germany, Norway, Austria and Canada. Like its predecessor, TALENT 2 trains will offer state-of-the-art public address and emergency call systems, transparent passenger compartments, and features to accommodate the needs of disabled passengers.
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