Another 1-Billion-Euro Metro Train Order Secured in a Single Blow!

Just after winning a $1-billion order for 47 EMUs in Mexico, Alstom announced on December 18 that the TransitLinX alliance it participates in has successfully secured the contract for the Eastern Section of the Suburban Rail Loop project in Melbourne, Australia. The total value of the contract amounts to 4.9 billion euros (approximately 8.8 billion AUD), with Alstom set to receive a share of 1 billion euros (approximately 1.8 billion AUD), responsible for critical areas including train supply, signaling systems, operation and maintenance services, as well as overall system integration.

It is reported that the TransitLinX alliance is composed of Alstom and five other enterprises: John Holland, KBR, WSP, and RATP Dev. This project represents the largest rail and housing infrastructure project in Australia. The Eastern Section spans 26 kilometers and includes six underground stations, all situated near major employment, education, and healthcare hubs. Upon completion, it will serve as a vital transportation link connecting Melbourne's central suburbs. The entire Suburban Rail Loop project covers a total length of 90 kilometers and is expected to significantly enhance transport accessibility across Melbourne's suburban areas.

Under the division of responsibilities, Alstom will assemble and supply 13 four-car Metropolis automated metro trains at its Dandenong factory in Melbourne. These trains will operate with Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4) technology and be equipped with Alstom's Urbalis Forward Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system—a fully integrated signaling solution designed to ensure safe and efficient train operations. Additionally, Alstom will provide a comprehensive 15-year FlexCare Perform maintenance program, covering the train fleet, signaling systems, and related infrastructure to ensure high availability and reliability of the metro system. Train operations and maintenance will be carried out at dedicated facilities in Heatherton, Melbourne, with the first Metropolis train expected to enter service in 2035.

Currently, Alstom describes itself as the only rail technology provider in Australia with end-to-end railway manufacturing capabilities, supporting an extensive local railway supply chain. This project also marks Alstom's second driverless train project in Australia—the Metropolis metro trains it previously manufactured were put into operation in Sydney in 2019, demonstrating mature local expertise in driverless rail technology application.