The contract comprises a base order of 29 variable-gauge trains with an option for nine additional sets, which could take the value of the fleet to €365.6m.
With the addition of 15 years’ maintenance for 11 trains, tools, provision of depot facilities, and options for additional trains and an extension of the maintenance term, the overall value of the contract could reach €473.9.m
Renfe says the aim of the procurement is to provide accessible trains that can adapt to future changes in infrastructure, such as new standard-gauge line and electrification.
The trains will have a maximum speed of 160km/h on electrified lines and 140km/h on non-electrified routes.
The order will include trains to replace ageing class 592 DMUs used on Cercanías services from Murcia to Alicante and Aguilas. Services on these lines have suffered from chronic poor reliability, with annual ridership declining by 800,000 over the last decade.
Maintenance of the fleet will be managed by a joint venture between the winning bidder and Renfe Fabricacion y Mantenimiento.
The order is being placed within the framework of Renfe’s contract with the Spanish government for the operation of Public Service Obligation (PSO) train services.
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