Saudi Arabia: The manufacturer and the national operator Saudi Railway Company (SAR) have signed contracts worth around CHF 600 mln (€641.6 mln) for the supply and maintenance of 20 diesel trains.
Under a firm part, Stadler will supply 10 trains and provide their maintenance for 10 years, and under an option, it will supply and maintain a further 10 trains. The Swiss manufacturer was awarded the contract following SAR’s 2022 tender.
The rolling stock will have independent diesel-electric power heads that meet the latest European Stage V emission standards. The 175 m train will carry around 320 passengers and will be adapted to the country’s climate.
Previously, only the Spanish company CAF supplied diesel trains to the country. From 2011 to 2017, the company produced 18 such vehicles with varying numbers of coaches, capable of reaching speeds of 180 and 200 km/h. Another Spanish manufacturer, Talgo, supplied 36 electric trains for the Haramain high-speed line.
