Saturday, June 22, 2024
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Alstom, a pioneering force in smart and sustainable transportation solutions, has successfully secured a deal with Mercitalia Rail, part of the FS Logistics Division, to deliver 70 Traxx Universal locomotives to Italy. This arrangement also encompasses 12 years of comprehensive maintenance services. A number of these locomotives will feature innovative last mile technology. The agreement is valued at upwards of €323 million and includes an option for an additional 30 locomotives plus extended maintenance services.
The Traxx Universal represents the pinnacle of four-axle locomotive technology, known for its superior energy efficiency and powerful traction capabilities. Its efficient design and an extensive maintenance schedule, which minimizes the need for frequent servicing, ensure high reliability and availability. The last mile capability allows for a smooth transition to non-electrified tracks, such as those in ports, industrial zones, or terminals.
“We are delighted to announce this significant new contract with Polo Logistica, a longstanding customer and one of Italy’s pioneers in investing in high-power electric locomotives. Over the years, we have already supplied Polo Logistica with more than 50 such locomotives, all of which are in operation,” said Michele Viale, Managing Director of Alstom in Italy.
He added: “This new agreement reinforces the operations at the Vado Ligure site and reaffirms our expertise in cutting-edge railway technologies. Our commitment to excellence and innovation allows us to provide tailored solutions to meet the needs of our customers. Indeed, the supply contract includes some last mile locomotives capable of directly connecting the railway network with terminals and ports, enhancing worldwide cargo handling efficiency, speed, and security.”
Manufacturing of the Traxx Universal locomotives for the Italian market takes place at Alstom’s Vado Ligure plant, a facility with over 100 years of vehicle production heritage and home to more than 300 skilled workers. This plant plays a crucial role in various production phases, including the assembly of electrical and pneumatic components, bogies, painting, final assembly, testing, rain tests, vehicle weighing, and the repair of power and control electronics.
Alstom’s maintenance team, which includes experienced technicians across five depots in Italy, currently manages over 200 Traxx Universal locomotives. With the new contract, this number will rise above 300, supported by a local hub specializing in digital maintenance that provides real-time monitoring and data analysis of locomotive conditions. This setup enhances maintenance efficiency with minor repairs conducted at more than ten locations nationwide, ensuring optimal fleet performance and availability.
Over the past two decades, Alstom has sold more than 2,700 Traxx locomotives throughout Europe, with over 325 of those in Italy. Alstom leads the market in rail services, offering a comprehensive range of lifecycle support solutions through its FlexCare Perform maintenance services, which are custom-tailored to meet specific customer and operational needs, ranging from technical support and spare parts to complete maintenance outsourcing. Currently, Alstom maintains over 2,450 locomotives globally and manages maintenance responsibilities for more than 170 locomotives in Italy.
Alstom™, Traxx Universal™, and FlexCare Perform™ are registered trademarks of Alstom Group.