Alstom to equip 37 locomotives in the SNCB fleet with latest-generation ETCS signalling technology
Alstom to equip 37 locomotives in the SNCB fleet with latest-generation ETCS signalling technology
Press contact - Belgium - Luxemburg- Netherlands
Sonia Thibaut
Send an email-
The contract, awarded to our Charleroi plant, also includes 10 years of maintenance
-
The level 2 ETCS signalling system improves the performance and punctuality of trains
18 April 2023 – Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility solutions, has won a contract for the design, supply and maintenance (10 years) of level 2 ETCS (European Train Control System) signalling systems for 37 HLD77 locomotives in the Belgian rail operator SNCB’s fleet. The contract consolidates the partnership of trust between Alstom and SNCB.
Initially designed to harmonise cross-frontier rail traffic, ETCS improves the speed, punctuality and safety of trains. Level 2 ETCS is the optimum signalling solution for SNCB and other rail operators around the world, thanks especially to its flexible, scalable design. For the SNCB contract, the ETCS solution will integrate national functionalities (TBL1+) to enable trains to circulate on lines equipped with this system.
“I’m delighted with this new order, which attests to the trust SNCB places in the products developed by Alstom. Under this new contract, Alstom will be equipping just over 800 coaches and locomotives in the national operator’s fleet while making the railways safer.”
SNCB principally uses its HLD77 locomotives for shunting operations. The modernisation of this rolling stock will take place over the period 2023-2025.
“I’m delighted with this new order, which attests to the trust SNCB places in the products developed by Alstom. Under this new contract, Alstom will be equipping just over 800 coaches and locomotives in the national operator’s fleet while making the railways safer,” declares Bernard Belvaux, Managing Director of Alstom Benelux. “It’s also big news for Belgium, as the Charleroi plant will be in charge of the project. We continue to expand in Belgium, and we’re now looking to recruit 80 new employees for our engineering operations in Charleroi.”
The Alstom Group’s Charleroi plant is a global development centre, and under the new deal it will be responsible for engineering and supplying the on-board components of the signalling system. It will also provide maintenance for a 10-year period, including spare parts and repairs.
The award of this contract confirms Alstom’s leading position in the railway signalling systems market. In Europe, over 70% of trains equipped with a European-built ETCS use an Alstom system.
Alstom™ is a registered trademark of Alstom Group.
