Passenger Bus, Rail and Motorcoach Industry News

The trains are powered by the highly energy efficient Bombardier Mitrac propulsion and control system and incorporate energy-saving Bombardier ECO4 technologies.

The Zefiro combines the highest capacity in the industry with pioneering levels of passenger comfort and employs leading-edge technologies and advanced aerodynamics to reduce energy consumption, according to the company.

He spoke at the Next Generation Rail Supply Chain Connectivity Forum held to introduce suppliers to U.S.-based manufacturers likely to bid on the nearly $800 million in upcoming next-generation train orders.

Commercial operation is planned for late 2011. Among other routes, they will operate on the new Rhin-Rhône high-speed line scheduled to open in December 2011. The entire fleet will be delivered by 2014.

Trains will get face a number of tests on the Italian High Speed railways to complete the certification process begun in 2009. The first phase was completed on December 12 with an approximate 205 mph run on the Milano Bologna very high-speed line.

The contract, including 20 eight-car trainsets and 60 sixteen-car trainsets, is valued at an estimated $4 billion. Bombardier’s share of the contract is estimated at $2 billion.