Rock Rail Acquires 31 New Alstom Talent 3 Plus Trains for German Regional Networks

Wedoany.com Report-Nov 22, These trains will be deployed in Baden-Württemberg and Saale-Thuringia-Southern Harz (STS) networks in Germany.

Rock Rail and abrdn Core Infrastructure have purchased 31 six-car Talent 3 Plus electric multiple units from Alstom.

The Talent 3 Plus is the latest evolution of the well-established Talent platform, which has been in service since the 1990s. These fully electric trains reach speeds up to 160 km/h and are equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2. This system enhances safety and efficiency by transmitting signals directly to the driver's cab and allowing trains to operate at shorter intervals.

Designed with accessibility in mind, the fleet features sliding steps, facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, accessible toilets, and built-in ramp lifts. Meeting fire safety category "B" standards, the trains are approved for operation in tunnels of any length.

In Baden-Württemberg, the third-largest German federal state by population, these new units will support initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and increase rail passenger demand. The state government is investing in several rail infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new underground main station in Stuttgart to replace the existing terminus. This project is complemented by the "Digitaler Knoten Stuttgart" initiative, which implements ETCS Level 2 throughout the Stuttgart rail node to increase network capacity.

The Talent 3 Plus trains will join an existing fleet of Talent 3 units, aligning their ETCS capabilities with the upgraded infrastructure. On the STS network, operated by Abellio Rail Mitteldeutschland, the new trains will provide additional capacity on the RB 25 line between Halle and Saalfeld. The network has experienced growth in passenger numbers following the introduction of the Deutschlandticket, a nationwide regional train ticket priced at €49 per month.

Alstom is installing the ETCS Level 2 equipment on the new trains, contributing to the broader adoption of this signalling technology across Europe. The transaction was advised exclusively by Stifel for mergers and acquisitions and debt arrangements.