Stadler Valencia strengthened in New Zealand: 33 new locomotives for country's 'Renfe'

Valencia. plant Stadler It is strengthening its presence in New Zealand with two new contracts to supply 33 new engines at Valencia. Kiwi train, the country's 'Renfe'. The new additional orders add to the landmark deal of 57 units 228 million Euros received by the Valencian plant in Albuixech in 2021 for this railway operator.

Specifically, the first contract involves the supply of nine line locomotives equipped with ETCS (European Train Control System) to operate in the North Island. The second contract includes 24 innovative hybrid shunting engines and spare parts, specific tools and technical support services. The total amount was not disclosed.

Currently, Stadler Valencia is producing the first order reached three years ago for the 57 DM class narrow gauge locomotives to operate in the South Island. However, Kiwi Rail has extended the order as part of a fleet renewal it is undertaking for a $1.7 billion investment.

Hence, under the new agreement, both companies have expanded their commitment with additional orders. The first consisted of nine locomotives in service on the North Island railway network. Additionally, the last ten DM Class locomotives from the first line of 2021 will be equipped with ETCS, bringing the total number of ETCS locomotives in the North Island to nineteen. This will enable the reliable and safe use of locomotives fitted with ETCS Level 1 signaling systems in the Greater Auckland region.

These locomotives are equipped with a 3,000 kW low-emission diesel engine. Not only do they comply with the latest European emission regulations (stage V) and guarantee a significant reduction in pollutant emissions, but they also improve fuel efficiency, which results in lower fuel consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, they are readily available for use with biofuels.

Hybrid engines

As part of the second contract, Stadler Valencia will supply 24 narrow gauge, diesel-battery hybrid shunting locomotives with a central cabin and a maximum axle load of 16 tonnes. The new shunting engines are designed to operate at all KiwiRail terminals.

Thanks to the batteries, these units will primarily act as a zero-emission vehicle, making a significant contribution to reducing the carbon footprint of KiwiRail's maneuvering operations. This comprehensive contract also includes spare parts, specific tools and technical services. Shunting engines may be operated from outside the driving cabin, within the confines of the shunting area, by a remote control system.

Along with this new workload, the Valencian plant adds functionality. So, by the end of 2023, it has reached the delivery of 12 electric locomotives EURO9000 for Alpha Trains, a rail leasing company in various parts of Europe. But also, Stadler Valencia is currently engaged in the production of the first trains Cercanias, an order for the modernization of the Renfe fleet worth 2,726 million euros, was awarded 59 units in a total of 211 convoys for 1,305 million euros, plus 20 optional ones.

Carrying out these production tasks led the factory to increase its size and expand its workforce with nearly 500 new jobs. They are forecast to be in circulation from 2025 and operate in Spain's major urban areas of Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.