MENU
SEARCHThe contract, which is for a ten-year period with the option to extend another 5 years, covers maintenance and spare parts on 74 four-car Class 357 ELECTROSTAR trains and is valued at approximately $213 million.
Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation has signed a contract with National Express Group to provide maintenance for the new Essex Thameside franchise. This new franchise was recently awarded to National Express Group by the UK's Department for Transport (DfT). The contract, which is for a ten-year period with the option to extend another 5 years, covers maintenance and spare parts on 74 four-car Class 357 ELECTROSTAR trains and is valued at approximately $213 million.
Andrew Chivers, Managing Director Rail, National Express Group, said, "Bombardier Transportation is fully aligned in terms of driving improved fleet performance in support of National Express' commitment to deliver excellent levels of service to its customers".
Bombardier Transportation's approach to this new maintenance contract includes a number of initiatives designed to provide effective support and improve fleet performance. Aligned with National Express Group's franchise performance and operational commitments, the new contract contains an incentivised performance regime and incorporates Bombardier's Automatic Vehicle Inspection System (AVI System).
Already in use at Bombardier's Central Rivers (UK) and Gautrain Rail (South Africa) service depots, the AVI System is an integrated technology that uses a range of cameras and sensors to analyse and monitor a vehicle's condition. Housed in a dedicated structure around and under the tracks, the AVI System helps operators lower costs by reducing component usage and maintenance interventions while increasing asset utilisation. This innovative system can also automatically generate maintenance work orders, provide advanced notification of component wear and even trigger safety alerts - all without the intervention of inspection technicians.
Per Allmer, President, Western Europe, Middle East and Africa, Bombardier Transportation, said, "We're pleased to have been awarded this key maintenance contract, which offers an innovative approach that includes the introduction of our Automatic Vehicle Inspection System. Together with control-room technicians, the AVI System will enhance National Express' fleet performance and support their franchise commitments." With a strong fleet service track record in the UK, Bombardier Transportation already maintains fleets for National Express Group, East Midlands Trains as well as for Cross Country's Voyager fleet, for which Bombardier has won a prestigious UK rail industry award, five years in a row, in recognition of the Voyager fleet's reliability performance.
Funding for the purchase of the railcars comes from the nearly $220 million in additional capital dollars Gov. Josh Shapiro allocated in November 2025 to support urgent safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements.
Read More →
The $945 million project connects four new stations and expands regional mobility.
Read More →
Research ties rail access to lower depression, better cognition and improved air quality.
Read More →
With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving.
Read More →
The final seven-mile segment of the 2 Line includes new stations at Mercer Island and Judkins Park and connects to the 1 Line at the International District/Chinatown Station. The Link light rail system now spans 63 miles and includes 50 stations.
Read More →
From March 29 through May 9, shuttle buses will replace train service between Bridgeport Station and Norristown Transit Center. Train service will operate as normal between Bridgeport Station and 69th Street Transit Center.
Read More →
The project will create the first continuous north-south rail line in the LA basin, connecting major job centers, transit lines, and communities.
Read More →
Nadine S. Lee, who has served as president/CEO since July 2021, said the decision comes after careful reflection on the agency’s progress and its path forward.
Read More →
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.
Read More →
As part of the contract, the AECOM-LiRo NYPennT Joint Venture will work with Amtrak and the selected Master Developer to completely transform Penn Station, improving safety and operational efficiency, making the system more family-friendly, accommodating increased train and passenger capacity, and delivering a world-class experience to its growing passenger base, according to Amtrak officials.
Read More →
