CAF, the Spanish rolling stock manufacturer, has announced the signing of two new contracts in France, marking a significant milestone in its internationalization strategy and strengthening its presence in one of Europe's most dynamic rail markets. The agreements, valued at more than €300 million, underscore the company's confidence in its technology and production capacity.
The first of these contracts has been awarded by the Syndicat Mixte des Mobilités de L'Aire Grenobloise (SMMAG) Grenoble, for the supply of 38 Urbos trams, with an option to add up to nine additional units. These trams, which will begin operating in 9, will gradually replace the existing fleet and aim to modernize public transport in the capital of the French Alps.
The new Urbos trams will incorporate the most advanced technology from CAF, offering Increased capacity, improved accessibility and operational optimization. They will be fully air-conditioned, low-floor vehicles with capacity for 281 passengers (82 seated) and 12 double-access doors to speed up station interchange. These trams will be manufactured at CAF's plant in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, consolidating this facility as a center of expertise for trams and short-distance trains. This contract adds to those already in development for the cities of Marseille, Montpellier and Tours.
The second contract has been awarded by the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Region to a consortium formed by CAF and AlstomThis agreement contemplates a new order of 14 Coradia Polyvalent regional trains, derived from the agreements between both companies following CAF's acquisition of the Reichshoffen plant in 2022. CAF will be responsible for the design and manufacture of these units, while Alstom will supply part of the equipment.
These trains Coradia Polyvalent They are designed for regional transport, offering remarkable modularity in architecture, motorization, and interior design. The order includes 5 electric Intercités trains with 6 cars (with capacity for 355 seated passengers) and 9 4-car bi-mode TER trains (with 228 seats). The trains will offer a high level of comfort With large windows, indirect LED lighting, ergonomic seats, and power outlets, they will also meet the highest accessibility standards for people with reduced mobility (PRM). The nine TER trains will be equipped with an additional parking brake and will be prepared for the system. ETCS (European Train Control System). These units will be manufactured at the CAF plant in Reichshoffen, Alsace, which specializes in trains over 50 meters.
Since 2019, CAF has established itself as a key player in the French railway landscape. The company has invested approximately 10 million euros annually from 2022 in the modernization and expansion of its French facilities to meet market demands. CAF's product portfolio in France ranges from Intercités and RER trains to zero-emission trams, metros, and buses, reinforcing its position as a long-term strategic partner for French public transport authorities. France is, in fact, one of the countries that invests most consistently in the renewal of its railway rolling stock.
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