Bombardier pegs value of South Africa electric train deal at US$1.2B
by Canadian Manufacturing Staff
Order for for 240 TRAXX electric freight locomotives to be complete by end of 2017
BERLIN—A massive order in South Africa for 240 electric locomotives is worth about US$1.2-billion, according to contract winner Bombardier Inc.
Announced last month, the order from Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is part of a larger agreement for more than 599 electric and 465 diesel train engines from four different suppliers, making it the largest locomotive supply deal in South African history.
Bombardier subsidiary Bombardier Transportation South Africa (Pty) Ltd.’s portion of the deal for 240 TRAXX electric locomotives is worth approximately US$1.2-billion at list prices.
The South African rail operator will use the dual-voltage electric locomotives for its general freight business, Bombardier said.
The locomotives will be designed to travel as fast as 100 km/h.
Bombardier is currently seeking suppliers and sub-contractors as it gears up to build the trains.
More than 60 per cent of the contract will be executed locally, the Montreal-based company said.
Bombardier will begin production of the locomotives in April 2016, with the job expected to last through 2017.
