20 December 2006

All aboard for new train tenders

Greater Wellington has shortlisted three world-class train manufacturers to supply the Wellington region with new electric multiple unit (EMU) trains.

Chairman Cr Ian Buchanan says that Greater Wellington’s procurement programme will see modern, accessible, energy-efficient EMUs picking up commuters by mid 2010.

“The announcement of the shortlist is a key milestone in our programme to replace some of our existing train fleet with 58 new EMUs and provide for patronage growth. Once the EMUs are in operation, we’ll have the opportunity to refurbish the Ganz Mavag units.”

Greater Wellington will request and evaluate tenders from the three shortlisted companies and announce a preferred supplier by mid 2007. Stakeholders such as Toll NZ Consolidated Ltd, ONTRACK and other key user groups will have input in this process.

The three shortlisted companies are:

Bombardier Transportation (Australia)

Bombardier Transportation designs, manufactures and supports railway rolling stock and equipment, particularly EMUs for suburban commuter services. The company manufactures rolling stock and components in 42 locations across 21 countries, with two of these facilities located in Australia. Approximately 25% of the rolling stock in service every day around the globe are Bombardier trains.

CAF (Spain)

CAF (Construcciones Y Auxiliar De Ferrocarriles) has focused on the railway industry for the last 90 years, expanding its activities from Spain towards international markets. CAF designs, manufactures, delivers, commissions and maintains a range of vehicles for passenger railway services including tramways, light rail vehicles, metro cars, locomotives and passenger coaches.

Rotem (South Korea)/Mitsui (Japan)

Rotem is part of the Hyundai Motor Group and has produced railway systems for various customers throughout the world. Rotem manufactures EMUs, high-speed trains, light rail vehicles, locomotives, passenger coaches and freight wagons. Mitsui’s main business includes sales; manufacturing; export/import; and international trade and services in metal products and minerals, machinery, electronics and information, chemicals, energy, and consumer products and services.

ENDS

© Scoop Media