Rhône-Alpes says that since decentralisation of funding for regional rolling stock in 2002, the French regions have invested €5.8bn in 1500 new trains, yet they do not have ownership of these assets. SNCF currently develops specifications, negotiates with manufacturers, monitors the procurement process, and manages after-sales and maintenance.
The regions have therefore formed the Rolling Stock Study Association (Amer) to look at the most cost-effective options for managing future rolling stock procurement. Amer's founder members include Auvergne, Burgandy, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Picardie, Poitou Charente, and Ile de France Transport Authority (Stif). The Association of French Regions is also included as an honorary member.
Rhône-Alpes regional councillors have voted to provide Amer with a €60,000 grant to cover membership costs and help to finance the first round of studies.
