ABB will supply traction converters, transformers, battery chargers, train control systems, and passenger information and entertainment equipment. ABB says by upgrading the electrical systems the trains will have a more reliable power supply system while at the same time energy consumption will be reduced.

The trains will also be fitted with a new interior and the first refurbished train will be completed next year for evaluation and testing, before work starts on the rest of the fleet. The refurbishment programme will be completed in 2019. "This initiative will enable SJ to offer the most comfortable train journeys on the main inter-city lines in Sweden for a long time ahead," says SJ's CEO Mr Crister Frizson.

The initial batch of 20 six-car X2000 trains, which have a power car at one end and a driving trailer at the other, were ordered in 1986 from Asea, which merged with BBC, Switzerland, to form ABB in 1988. ABB's train building activities are now part of Bombardier.