IDFM and SNCF Voyageurs: France tender for 300 double-deck EMUs

SNCF Voyageurs and Île-de-France Mobilités (IDFM) have opened the France tender for 300 double-deck EMUs, launching a joint procurement for more than 300 Z2N NG double-deck EMUs, as reported by Railway PRO.

The process is being run under a framework agreement valued at more than EUR 8 billion. Requests to participate must be submitted by 31 March 2026.

Framework agreement scope and timeline

Set for 23 years, the framework agreement includes a firm order for 52 Z2N NG double-deck EMUs, estimated at EUR 1.5 billion, as noted by International Railway Journal. In addition, the framework provides for 248 optional trains that may be ordered later under its terms.

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Also, the procurement procedure is not divided into lots. The contract will remain in force until December 2052 and does not include an extension option, according to the EU public procurement notice.

Options for IDFM and SNCF Voyageurs within the France tender for 300 double-deck EMUs

The call for competition sets out multiple optional tranches to be activated through subsequent orders. In the first option, IDFM may place an order for 198 trains, with a maximum value of EUR 4.1 billion.

Meanwhile, a second option—also executed through later orders—is intended to meet IDFM’s specific requirements for additional maintenance and logistical support services, valued at up to EUR 1.2 billion.

Separately, SNCF Voyageurs has options of its own. The third optional tranche relates to SNCF Voyageurs’ procurement of double-deck trains and associated support elements, for up to 50 Z2N NG EMUs, capped at EUR 986 million. A fourth optional tranche, again executed by SNCF Voyageurs, covers additional maintenance and logistical support services, with a limit of EUR 245 million.

At the same time, these elements define how the France tender for 300 double-deck EMUs can scale beyond the firm order, while keeping each optional call-off tied to the framework’s terms.

Award criteria and total cost of ownership weighting

Offers will be assessed using criteria designed to balance performance, sustainability, and cost-efficiency. Evaluation combines quality and cost, with the stated objective of selecting the solution that delivers the best long-term results.

On the quality side, technical performance of the rolling stock is allocated 340 points. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) accounts for 120 points, reflecting social and environmental standards and contributions to sustainable rail transport. Industrial planning and organisation is weighted at 80 points, focusing on the bidder’s ability to manage production and delivery under a rigorous schedule while maintaining high standards. Integrated logistical support is worth 70 points, covering maintenance and operational support intended to keep the rolling stock available and downtime minimised.

Still, on the cost side, the main measure is the total cost of ownership of the rolling stock, including acquisition, maintenance, and operation, evaluated at 390 points. This structure is intended to align selection with long-term value, alongside expectations for quality, safety, and sustainability in passenger rail services.

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