Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation announced today that it has signed a contract to provide 33 additional Bombardier Twindexx Vario double-deck coaches to Israel Railways (ISR). This call-off is part of a framework agreement signed in October 2010 and is valued at approximately $61 million. Delivery of the new coaches is scheduled to be completed by February 2019.

The new coaches are an improved version of those currently in operation with ISR and will provide an enhanced travel experience. They will be equipped with carpeting on both levels, a state-of-the-art passenger information system, powerful air-conditioning, bogies with secondary air-suspension, and a safety system that allows departure only after passenger doors have fully closed. Hauled by the new Bombardier TRAXX AC electric locomotives ordered in 2015, each eight-car train features seating capacity for 1,000 passengers.

The trainsets, based on a proven platform concept, are in operation across Europe and are compliant with all current safety, comfort and efficiency standards. They will represent great strides in helping alleviate congestion in Israel.

As a full solution provider, Bombardier Transportation operates a service depot in Haifa where existing 293 double-deck coaches are being upgraded for a speed of 160 km/h and for electric traction. This month, a Bombardier team began qualifying local staff to carry out the final assembly of the eight, recently-delivered coaches at an ISR shop floor in Be'er Sheva, part of a call-off from March 2016.