Alstom was awarded a €538m New Zealand contract covering 18 battery-electric commuter trains and 35 years’ fleet maintenance in a transaction securing Wellington’s regional railway network’s future sustainability.

Alstom secures €538m contract for battery trains in New Zealand
Photo: Alstom

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Alstom deal alters Wellington train fleet

The agreement with the Greater Wellington Regional Council is part of the Lower North Island Rail Integrated Mobility programme. The new rail stock will be used in place of aging diesel stock due for retirement in 2028 and 2029, enabling zero-emission services on non-electrified lines.

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Ling Fang, President Asia-Pacific, Alstom, commented: “This project shows how Alstom is committed to driving sustainable mobility and supporting customers in the transformation towards cleaner technologies.”

The new fleet shall be manufactured in Alstom’s Indian Savli plant. Concurrently, a special maintenance depot in Masterton shall incorporate the most modern techniques in predictive maintenance and battery management, offering passengers maximum availability and reliability.

Alstom trains offer cultural and passenger benefits

Branded as Tūhono, the five-car train sets can transport as many as 475 passengers at 120-km speeds. These will feature provisions for wheelchairs, cycles, bags, and prams, in addition to toilets, vending machines, and water dispensers in a bid to increase comfort.

Additionally, the livery integrates Māori culture, designed in consultation with Indigenous Design and Innovation. Therefore, the project integrates both indigenous culture and technical innovations, with a lasting community heritage in New Zealand.

Pascal Dupond, Managing Director, ALSTOM Australia and New Zealand, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the government of New Zealand and domestic operators in bringing the expertise and environmentally-friendly solutions of Alstom into New Zealand for the first time.”

Future development and sustainable transport

This is the first use by Alstom of its battery technology in the Asia-Pacific markets. The company has provided BEMU fleets in Germany and Ireland and continues to modernize existing diesel and electric units globally.

By embracing it, New Zealand can be a world leader in sustainable commuter transport. But long-term success depends on sustained investment, efficient maintenance, and productive partnership among councils, operators, and industry stakeholders.

What is the value of the Alstom contract in New Zealand?

The transaction is worth €538m and covers 18 deliveries of battery-electric trains and 35 years’ worth of Wellington area fleet maintenance.

When does the new battery train start operations?

The trains are scheduled to replace current diesel services in 2028 and 2029, upon the completion of production and depot construction.

How will Wellington passengers benefit from the new trains?

The fleet provides zero-emission transport, modern amenities, and improved access, and Māori culture-inspired design as a reflection on local heritage and identity.

Source: Alstom

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