6+
Efforts to increase train speeds continue unabated, with new countries, such as Russia, joining the exclusive club of manufacturers.
Spain: The Spanish business media El Economista reports that negotiations are underway as the investment foundation CriteriaCaixa plans to engage the Czech manufacturer as a potential manufacturing partner.
Spain: The first ten AVE trains have commenced operation between Madrid and Galicia and Asturias. These are the world’s first variable gauge trains with a max speed of 330 km/h. The prototype was unveiled in 2012, and the delivery was delayed by more than 3 years.
Spain: The next three months will be spent waiting for the acquisition to be authorised by the national government.
Spain: The first batch comprises ten variable gauge AVE trains with 507 seats.
Spain: Two major local rolling stock builders, CAF and Talgo, report on varied trends in their activities.
Spain: According to Spanish media, Renfe has decided to seek a higher fine from the train manufacturer, €166 mln instead of the €116 mln previously announced. Talgo says it has not yet received a lawsuit.
Bulgaria: If the Spanish manufacturer wins a current tender, it will design the low-floor Intercity BG train on the basis of the Talgo 230.
Spain: The company has notified the Spanish stock market regulator CNMV of its plans to buy all the shares in the manufacturer for €632 mln, or €5 per share.