Santiago metro in Chile contracts Alstom to modernise seven-car fleet
Source:transportweekly 2014-3-10 14:56:00
Santiago Metro in Chile has contracted Alstom to completely modernise a fleet of 35 seven-car trains that were supplied more than 40 years ago, according to Railway Technology.
Work under the Euro 220m contract includes project management, engineering, fitting of new traction equipment3, supply of static converters for auxiliary equipment, a new communications system, new doors, new interiors and air-conditioning.
The company will also oversee the technical assistance and maintenance of materials for a period of 10 years.
Overhaul of the existing Alstom-built trains of the Santiago metro network will start with Lines 2 and 5, which is expected to increase the lifespan of the trains by another 20 years.
The upgraded trains will also deliver enhanced comfort, reliability and security for all passengers while consuming 30% less energy.
Alstom Transport Latin America senior vice-president Michel Boccaccio said: "The modernisation of the fleet will allow Metro SA to take advantage of the latest technologies at a competitive cost compared to buying new trains.
"Passengers of Santiago Metro will appreciate the new travel experience with a modern and reliable metro fleet."
The train operators will be provided with a simulator by Alstom to become better acquainted in driving the new trains.
The contract will be carried out in the Neptuno metro depot and is expected to be completed by mid-2018.
With more than two million commuters travelling per day, Santiago is the fourth largest metro network in the Americas and has the second longest metro network in Latin America after Mexico City.