Alstom’s NZ Adessia Stream BEMU Trains: Rail Innovations

Introduction

Alstom has been awarded a €538m (NZ$1.065bn) contract by the Greater Wellington Regional Council in New Zealand to provide 18 Adessia Stream B battery-electric multiple unit (BEMU) trains. The trains, to be manufactured at Alstom’s Savli facility in India, will replace existing diesel locomotives on the Wairarapa and Manawatu lines, with delivery scheduled for 2028 and 2029. Each train will carry up to 475 passengers and operate at speeds up to 120kph.

Contract Details

The contract with the Greater Wellington Regional Council includes the supply of 18 Adessia Stream B BEMU trains and a 35-year FlexCare Perform fleet maintenance service. The project introduces the first BEMU commuter trains to New Zealand, supporting emission-free operations on non-electrified sections of the Wellington rail network.

Manufacturing and Maintenance

The trains will be manufactured at Alstom’s Savli facility in India. The existing diesel locomotive-hauled trains are scheduled for retirement in 2028 and 2029. A new maintenance facility will be established in Masterton, designed by the Greater Wellington Regional Council, and will feature technologies for fleet maintenance and battery servicing.

Train Specifications and Features

Each train will accommodate up to 475 passengers and reach speeds of up to 120kph. Based on Alstom’s Adessia commuter trains platform, the design is tailored to Wellington’s operational needs. Passenger amenities will include wheelchair access, bike storage, luggage space, toilets, vending machines, and water dispensers. The train livery, named ‘Tūhono’, will incorporate Māori and cultural elements, with design input from Indigenous Design and Innovation.

Technology and Implementation

The trains will incorporate HealthHub condition-based and predictive maintenance systems, and a connected driver advisory system. The trains will feature intelligent train control. The onboard battery will facilitate emission-free operation through the 9km Remutaka Tunnel. This contract follows previous orders, including 11 BEMU trains for VMS in Germany and 31 for Irish Rail in Ireland.

Conclusion

Alstom’s contract with the Greater Wellington Regional Council includes 18 Adessia Stream B BEMU trains and a 35-year maintenance service, marking the introduction of the first BEMU commuter trains in New Zealand, scheduled for delivery by 2029. The trains will replace existing diesel locomotives and will include passenger amenities and advanced maintenance technologies. The trains will be manufactured at Alstom’s Savli facility in India.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global company specializing in rail transport solutions, including trains, signaling, and related services. Alstom is involved in manufacturing and maintaining rail infrastructure.

Greater Wellington Regional Council: A local government body in New Zealand, responsible for regional planning and services, including public transport.

VMS: Company is mentioned in the source as a recipient of an order of 11 BEMU trains from Alstom.

Irish Rail: A rail transport operator in Ireland.

Technology

BEMU (Battery-Electric Multiple Unit): A train powered by batteries, enabling emission-free operation on non-electrified sections of the rail network.

FlexCare Perform: Fleet maintenance service.

HealthHub: Condition-based and predictive maintenance systems.

ETCS (European Train Control System): A train protection system designed to enhance safety and operational efficiency.