CAF Wins Train Tender in Belgium

Spanish company CAF secured a train supply contract in Belgium. Carrier SNCB chose it for the country’s biggest project ever. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

CAF offered to fulfill a framework contract worth $3.7 billion, impressing experts. The firm portion totals nearly $1.8 billion, and its portfolio share hits 25.6%.

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The tender launched in late 2022, and CAF clinched it with clear superiority. The company will deliver double-deck AM30 trains and single-deck MR30 trains over 12 years.

AM30 electric trains feature three- and four-car models, reaching speeds of 160 km/h. Battery-powered MR30 trains hit 120 km/h, but exact delivery numbers remain undisclosed.

Production plans utilize the Civity platform, and this excites industry specialists. The first AM30 cars will start operating in Q2 2029, promising progress.

Belgium Upgrades Railways with CAF

Competitors Alstom and Siemens Mobility challenged CAF, but the Spanish firm prevailed. Alstom’s bid came in $108 million cheaper, yet it fell short of winning.

Alstom’s Benelux Managing Director Bernard Belvaux voiced concerns over SNCB’s decision. He sent a letter to Transport Minister Jean-Luc Crucke, highlighting job risks.

Charleroi Mayor Thomas Dermine also criticized CAF’s selection, as it lacks factories locally. SNCB’s prior $3.6 billion contract with Alstom faces significant delays in delivery.

Belgium and EU Legislation

SNCB countered criticism, explaining that EU laws restrict their options. Local production offers no edge, and price accounts for just 50% of tender scores.

Experts highlight that CAF’s deal boosts its standing in Europe’s market. The nation’s railways will gain modern trains, enhancing passenger service quality.

The CAF contract marks a milestone for the region’s railway sector. Upgraded rolling stock will ensure comfort, and the carrier advances ambitious network plans.

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