Bombardier Transportation’s Chinese joint venture, Bombardier Sifang (Qingdao) Transportation Ltd., was awarded a variation order by the Chinese Ministry of Railways (MOR).

After reviewing its operational strategy, the MOR decided to vary its original order of 80 very high-speed trains from 2009 to include 70 eight-car Bombardier Zefiro 380 trains, 46 Zefiro 250 stainless steel trains and 60 Zefiro 250NG trains. This variation provides MOR with increased flexibility in delivering its passenger services. The original contract value from 2009 remains unchanged.

The trains incorporate industry-leading technical solutions in aerodynamics, propulsion and bogies, according to the company. The new Bombardier Flexx Speed bogie has been developed especially for this very high speed application. The trains are powered by the highly energy efficient Bombardier Mitrac propulsion and control system and incorporate energy-saving Bombardier ECO4 technologies.

The Zefiro 250 train is already operating in various parts of China. An existing fleet of 115 trains, 1,200 cars in total is currently in service.