The Bombardier-Alstom consortium signs a contract to build 468 new metro cars for Montréal

The consortium comprising Bombardier Transportation and Alstom Transport signed a contract with Société de transport de Montréal (STM) for the supply of 468 metro cars (52 nine-car trainsets) to replace the MR-63 fleet, in service since 1966, and to optimize service. The contract is estimated at approximately €864 million ($1.2 billion CDN). Bombardier’s share is estimated at €519 million ($742 million CDN) and Alstom’s share is estimated at €345 million ($493 million CDN). The contract will enter into force, and the final price fixed using the applicable exchange rate, when the usual steps of funding approval will be completed.

The design, manufacture and final assembly of the new Montréal metro cars will be undertaken at Bombardier’s facilities in La Pocatière and Saint-Bruno, Québec. Alstom’s sites in Sorel-Tracy and Montréal, Québec, will also be involved. The first prototype train will arrive in June 2013, followed by the base order deliveries that are scheduled to take place between February 2014 and September 2018.

In conformity with the STM requirements, the project includes a 60% canadian content and final assembly will take place in Canada.

The new cars will offer all the characteristics of a 21st century metro:

• The next-generation metro cars will provide a range of new features for passengers, ensuring maximum space and safety, including:
  • Open gangways allowing riders to walk freely from one end of the train to the other.
  • A new spacious interior design with optimal and ergonometric sitting arrangement.
  • A state-of-the art electronic passenger information system.
  • New security features, including onboard cameras and a two-way intercom system connecting passengers with the driver and the control center.
• The new design will increase reliability with proven propulsion and traction system technologies, and leverage environmentally friendly technologies, such as the wellknown wooden shoe braking system.

“Bombardier and Alstom commend the determination of the Government of Québec and the city of Montréal to bring about an efficient resolution to this bid process.” says Raymond Bachant, President, Bombardier Transportation, North America. “These state-of-the-art metro cars will provide Montréal and its transit users a reliable, comfortable and quiet ride and will continue to reflect the spirit of this great international city”.

“We look forward to getting to work to ensure the successful supply of new metro cars to the STM and its transit users.” commented Pierre Gauthier, President of Alstom Canada, “The STM will benefit from the combined expertise of the two largest transport manufacturer in the world who have been major contributors to the original MR-63 and MR-73 metro fleet.”

The Montréal metro consists of 4 lines, 68 stations on 66 kilometers of tracks and its metro cars travel some 76 million kilometers each year. It operates 20 hours per day and ensures an average of more than 850 000 passenger-trips per weekday.