French company Alstom have today signed a ten-year framework agreement with Iarnród Éireann for up to 750 new X’trapolis commuter rail cars for the DART network, with a firm initial order for 19 five-car trains, valued at €270m, including a 15-year support contract.
Due to enter service in 2025, the initial order is for six five-car electric multiple units (EMUs) and thirteen five-car battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs), capable of journeys beyond 80 kilometres outside the electrified network under battery power, and the first modern battery fleet in Ireland.
Energy stored in the battery system will be replenished via fast charging stations at chosen terminus locations and by recovering braking energy while the train is in motion. This capability will deliver emission-free connectivity and capacity ahead of electrification of the full DART+ network.
Alstom will continue to support the DART fleet for a period of 15 years, providing technical support and spares, and deploying its HealthHubTM and TrainScanner technologies for predictive maintenance.
Alstom’s highly successful, modular X’trapolis commuter train platform, with over 5,500 vehicles sold, will be specially tailored for the DART+ programme. Each 82-metre train will have space for 550 passengers with wide, walk-though gangways, low-level floor, and an automatic retractable step to maximise accessibility.
Other features include dedicated cycle and family areas; enhanced passenger features such as charging facilities for mobile phones, e-bikes and e-scooters; and advanced CCTV systems throughout the train, to enhance safety and security for customers and employees.
Nick Crossfield, Managing Director Alstom UK and Ireland
“Alstom is delighted to have been selected to deliver the new DART+ fleet. Ireland is a very important market to us, and the new electric and battery-electric X’trapolis fleet is a big step for making rail even more sustainable while transforming the passenger experience in the Greater Dublin area and beyond.”
Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann Jim Meade said: “This framework agreement with Alstom will be central to a transformative change for our services and for our customers, and will help us in Iarnród Éireann to achieve our ambition of being the backbone of Ireland’s sustainable transport network. We’re excited to work with Alstom to deliver expanded services in the Greater Dublin Area, enhanced facilities for our customers, and a cleaner environment for our country.”
