Bombardier And Deutsche Bahn AG Sign Framework Agreement Worth up to 1.5 Billion Euros

Mehdorn: Large Investments in Coaches Will Bolster DB’s Ability to Compete for Local Transportation Tenders As Well As Sending an Economic Message

New Vehicles First to be Equipped with Driven Cab Cars

Bombardier Transportation and Deutsche Bahn (DB) have signed a framework agreement for 800 double-deck coaches with a total volume of up to 1.5 billion euros ($2.1 billion US). With the new generation of vehicles, Deutsche Bahn will actively compete for tenders in the local rail transport market in 2009.

“We are going into regional rail transport tenders with our excellent products and convince with our quality,” DB CEO Hartmut Mehdorn stated, justifying the investments. “Precisely because worldwide economic growth is being assessed so sceptically, we must have the courage to invest in the future. Efficient, high-capacity transportation systems require a state-of-the-art vehicle fleet with energy-saving trains that can be flexibly combined and driven.”

André Navarri, President of Bombardier Transportation, explains: “The new generation of double-deck coaches is an outstanding example of our continuous product innovation here at Bombardier Transportation. It is now possible to combine double-deck coaches with multiple-unit technology. This is the largest framework agreement for vehicles that DB has ever awarded to a single supplier. We are very pleased by this trust.”

The Chairman of the Management Board of DB Regio, Ulrich Homburg, underscores the importance of flexible vehicles for economical operations. “For the first time ever, we will have powered double-deck coaches in our fleet. Individual coaches, driving trailers or trailer coaches can be added as well, depending on what the trains are being used for in the respective local transportation networks. In addition, the vehicles are compatible with other generations and will thus create cost benefits in operation,” says Homburg. “The added quality and comfort for customers will furthermore improve our position in future local transportation tenders and help to safeguard jobs in the DB Group.”

Since the Rail Reform in 1994, the year of the German railway reform in which Deutsche Bahn AG was founded, DB has purchased over 1,600 double-deck coaches. DB Regio currently has more than 2,000 double-deck coaches in its fleet. With a 98% reliability rating in operation, the vehicles enjoy great popularity with customers and orderers. Their interior can be outfitted to include a wide variety of comfort features. Standard equipment includes power outlets at the seats, first- and second-class seating areas, ergonomic seats, customer information systems and much more.