Many of these trains will strengthen the short-distance transportation network in Spain serving more than one million commuters every day in some of Spain’s largest cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. The orders also include traction equipment for new locomotives.
The orders include state-of-the-art compact traction converters and high-power lithium-ion battery based on-board energy storage systems to power 59 new generation high-capacity double-deck commuter trains for Spain’s state-owned rail operator Renfe. The orders were booked in the fourth quarter of 2021.
“After a decade-long successful collaboration in the propulsion locomotive segment, we are proud to receive Stadler’s continued trust to help deliver the most modern high-capacity trains together,” said Edgar Keller, president of ABB’s Traction Division. “Deep domain expertise ensure that ABB’s traction and energy storage solutions are optimized for energy efficient and reliable sustainable transportation.”
Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia, added, “We are glad to continue our collaboration with ABB in this new project. Its global expertise in traction systems, together with the local proximity excels close collaboration and enables innovation in these highly technological projects. ABB’s compact traction converter and energy storage systems are the best fit for these new generation high-capacity commuter trains supporting us to deliver energy-efficient and reliable fleets for the future.”
The new high-capacity commuter trains will operate on 3kV direct current overhead lines and are also equipped with traction batteries for emergency use and depot maneuvering. The new fleet, equipped with highly compact, efficient, and all roof mounted ABB traction technology, will increase passenger capacity, while contributing to more sustainable transportation.
ABB’s lithium-ion on-board energy storage system is used as alternative power source to help ensure reliable and punctual train services in the event of catenary failure. The energy storage system may also serve as the primary power source for maneuvering in depots or cleaning rail yards without catenary supply infrastructure.
The compact traction equipment converts the electrical energy from the overhead power line or battery into the needed voltage and frequency to drive the traction motors. Its compact design and high energy efficiency performance will save space, reduce weight, and save energy in these trains.