CP high-speed train tender covers a base fleet of 12 trainsets for future high-speed services in Portugal. Also, it includes an option for up to eight additional units. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

CP high-speed train tender covers 12-train order
Photo: CP

CP – Comboios de Portugal has launched an international tender. It covers supply and maintenance of high-speed passenger trains. In addition, the Portuguese Government says the trains are intended for Portugal’s developing high-speed network.

Also, the tender combines rolling stock supply with an initial maintenance period. It covers supporting equipment as well. It includes 12 high-speed passenger trainsets, spare parts, strategic components and special tools. At the same time, full maintenance services are covered for 24 months. That period starts from the provisional acceptance of the first train. The base contract is valued at EUR 504m excluding VAT.

CP high-speed train tender scope

Railmarket reported CP’s commercial-service requirement. The trains must already have operated in Europe at speeds of at least 300 km/h. Bidders must also prove experience supplying compliant high-speed rolling stock. It must meet the EU LOC&PAS TSI. In addition, it must be registered in ERATV. ERATV is the European Register of Authorised Types of Vehicles.

The operator has not named a preferred platform. Still, the technical conditions effectively point to established European high-speed train manufacturers. Those manufacturers must already have fleets in service. At the same time, suppliers must demonstrate high-speed train maintenance contract experience. The required period is the past 10 years.

The first train must be delivered 48 months after the contract enters into force. The rest of the fleet is then to follow at one train per month. August is excluded from the delivery schedule.

Optional trainsets and delivery requirements

CP has set out two variants for the optional additional trainsets. “Option A” covers additional trains identical to the base fleet. “Option B” allows trainsets built to an alternative technical specification. The procurement documents define that specification. Optional trains under Option B would be priced 3% above the base contract unit price.

Before entering service, the trains will be commissioned and tested in Portugal. Also, CP requires vehicle authorisation for operation on the Portuguese network. The supplier must obtain it before provisional acceptance.

Separately, training forms another part of the contract. The selected manufacturer must train up to 50 CP employees. For example, these include drivers and onboard personnel. Maintenance technicians and software specialists are also covered.

Maintenance documents and final bids

The supplier will also need to provide digital maintenance documentation. Also, diagnostic software and lifecycle support tools are required. In addition, the contract includes spare parts packages valued at up to EUR 24m.

Candidates have 45 days from publication of the contract notice to submit qualification applications. CP plans to use a restricted procedure. In addition, prequalification will take place before selected manufacturers are invited to submit final bids.

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