Alstom Transport and its Russian partner Transmashholding (TMH) have confirmed the design project for a jointly-created new electric train. The aim of this new product is to provide a reliable and economical solution for renewing Russia’s regional and suburban fleets. The launch of a new regional train offering for Russia opens a new chapter in the cooperation between Alstom and TMH.

These regional trains will come with a particularly competitive sales tag and maintenance offer in order to meet the requirements of operators.

This train is designed according to the principles of basic platform and modular construction. This will allow rapid modification of rolling stock of different types and composition, and adaptation of any future power supply. The first prototype is scheduled to go out of the factory at the end of 2012.

The new electric trains will include 4 to 12 coaches (up to 1500 passengers) and will run at at speeds of up to 160 km/h. It will operate according to the multiple unit system (i.e. two electric trains will, if necessary, operate synchronously in coupling) on both tracks with high and low platforms. They will be equipped with modern asynchronous traction drive and new bogies, providing a smooth run and reduced impact on the track. New trains will also be equipped with modern passive safety systems and a modular cabin.

These EMUs will ensure high level of passenger comfort and accessibility for wheelchair-bound passengers on high and low platforms. Several types of interior design are being created, providing comfort for both short and relatively long journeys. The trains will be equipped with the most up-to-date means of ventilation, heating, air conditioning and air purification, information displays and lamps with light-emitting diodes.

A team of 60 specialists from Alstom and TMH engineering center “TRTrans”, have worked on the design of this new electric train defining its architecture and aesthetic design, defining the components and drawing up technical documentation. During the following stage - design documentation - the number of Russian experts working with the project will increase significantly and most of the work will be carried out in Russia. The trains will benefit from Alstom’s expertise - more than 30 years of experience in regional transport with more than 3000 regional trains sold throughout the world.