Alstom Invests EUR 2 Million Annually in Italian Railway Signalling Sector

Marking the 100th anniversary of its Florence facility, Alstom invests EUR 2 million annually over two years. This milestone celebrates the site’s legacy in advancing railway signalling innovation across Italy and beyond. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Alstom Invests in Cutting-Edge Railway Technology

Attendees at the celebratory event included notable figures such as Eugenio Giani, Tuscany Region President, and Andrea Giorgio, Florence City Councillor for Mobility. Also present were Stefano Franchi, Federmeccanica President, and Stefano Bettini, Federmeccanica Vice-President, highlighting the event’s significance.

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Alstom’s ongoing growth in Digital, Infrastructure, and Signalling has driven a surge in hiring. In 2024 alone, over 100 employees joined, with 60 roles currently open across engineering, production, and project management. These efforts underline Alstom’s commitment to fostering local employment.

“This milestone reflects our enduring connection with the Florence community and relentless pursuit of innovation,” said Michele Viale, Alstom’s Managing Director for Italy. He emphasized the site’s global leadership in railway signalling technologies, contributing to smarter, safer mobility solutions.

Established in 1924, the Florence site joined Alstom in 2015, becoming a centre for railway signalling products. The facility produces level crossing protection systems, point machines, track circuits, and axle counters. It also assembles electronic racks and shelters, further solidifying its role in advancing railway technology.

The site spearheads innovation in systems like the Satellite-based European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), enhancing railway efficiency and safety. As one of six global Alstom signalling hubs, Florence is also the sole manufacturing hub in Italy, offering maintenance and customer support services.

Alstom’s Global Contributions and Local Impact

Globally, Alstom has produced over 20,000-point machines, including 1,200 CTS2 models, 750 axle counters, and 4,500 track circuits. These products are utilized in countries like Denmark, India, and France, showcasing Alstom’s international impact.

The event also featured the launch of “The Future in Our History: Artificial Intelligence Meets Human Ingenuity.” This exhibition highlights the Florence site’s journey since its founding, blending visual art and artificial intelligence. Iconic locations and milestones are reimagined, celebrating Florence’s role in technological innovation.

Visitors explored historical photographs, artifacts, and descriptions detailing Alstom’s achievements over the decades. This immersive experience emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation and its vision for future progress.

For nearly two decades, Alstom has been integral to Florence’s tram system, constructing and operating Lines 1, 2, and 3. Currently, the company is finalizing the “Variant to the Historic Centre” project and implementing Line 3.2 under the PNRR initiative. These efforts include constructing tracks, substations, and lighting systems.

Alstom is also involved in building Line 4, a project spanning 11 kilometers from Le Piagge to Campo Bisenzio. The Florence plant plays a critical role in upgrading the Florence railway junction and enhancing the Arezzo-Sinalunga line, ensuring the region’s infrastructure remains state-of-the-art.

Tuscany’s fleet of 68 regional trains, including Minuetto, Jazz, and Pop models, highlights Alstom’s regional influence. Maintenance services provided at three depots further solidify its presence in the local transport landscape.

Through continued investment and innovation, Alstom strengthens its leadership in railway signalling, reaffirming its dedication to Florence and its global ambitions.

Photo, source: www.railwaypro.com

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