Alstom & ATM Group Bid for Dublin Luas Contract

Ireland, May 21, 2025

The landscape of Dublin’s public transportation is set for a potentially transformative development as global rail transport leader Alstom and renowned urban transport operator ATM Group (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi) announce the formation of a strategic joint venture (JV). This collaboration is specifically aimed at competing in the upcoming tender process for the renewal of the operations and maintenance (O&M) contract for the Luas light rail system. The Luas, a cornerstone of Dublin’s transit network, currently facilitates the movement of over 40 million passengers annually, underscoring its critical role in the city’s daily life and economic vitality. The tender, managed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), represents a significant opportunity to shape the future operational paradigm of this vital service. This article will delve into the strategic imperatives behind this JV, the specific areas of focus for their joint proposal, Alstom’s deep-rooted history with the Luas system, and the broader implications for Dublin’s public transport infrastructure.

The Strategic Significance of the Luas Network

The Luas light rail system is more than just a mode of transport for Dublin; it is an integral component of the city’s urban fabric and its strategy for sustainable mobility. With two main lines, the Red Line and the Green Line, traversing key residential, commercial, and cultural hubs, the Luas provides essential connectivity for commuters, students, and tourists alike. Its annual ridership of over 40 million passengers highlights its capacity to alleviate road congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and support the economic dynamism of the Greater Dublin Area. A highly efficient and reliable O&M regime is paramount to maintaining service quality, ensuring passenger safety, and maximizing the asset’s lifecycle. The renewal of the O&M contract is therefore a critical undertaking for TII, attracting bidders capable of delivering world-class operational standards and continuous improvement.

Forging a Synergistic Partnership: Alstom and ATM Group

The decision by Alstom and ATM Group to form a joint venture is a calculated move, leveraging the distinct yet complementary strengths of each organization. Alstom, as a leading global manufacturer and maintainer of rolling stock and railway systems, brings unparalleled technical expertise, particularly concerning the Luas network, for which it has manufactured the entire existing fleet of 81 Citadis trams. Their deep understanding of the vehicles’ design, engineering, and maintenance requirements provides a strong foundation. On the other hand, ATM Group, the Milanese public transport company, contributes extensive operational experience in managing complex, multimodal urban transport networks. Their proficiency in day-to-day service delivery, customer interface management, and network optimization across various transit modes offers a holistic operational perspective. This synergy aims to create a compelling bid that balances technical know-how with proven operational acumen.

Core Tenets of the Joint Bid: Efficiency, Service, Sustainability, and Innovation

The joint proposal from Alstom and ATM Group is expected to be built upon four key pillars: operational efficiency, enhanced customer service, robust sustainability practices, and the integration of innovative technologies. Operational efficiency will likely focus on leveraging data analytics for predictive maintenance, optimizing crew and fleet deployment, and streamlining back-office processes to ensure high levels of availability and punctuality. In terms of customer service, the JV will aim to improve the passenger experience through real-time information systems, enhanced accessibility, and responsive communication channels. Sustainability is a critical aspect, with potential initiatives including energy-efficient driving techniques, waste reduction in depots, and promoting the high recyclability (up to 98%) of the Alstom-built Citadis trams. Finally, the integration of innovative technologies could encompass advancements in signalling, communication, passenger flow management, and potentially pilot projects for future system enhancements, ensuring the Luas remains a modern and future-proofed network.

Alstom’s Enduring Commitment to Irish Rail Infrastructure

Alstom’s involvement in the Irish market spans over two decades, solidifying its position as a key partner in the nation’s railway development. Beyond manufacturing the entire fleet of Dublin Luas trams, including the notably long 55-metre Citadis units renowned for their 100% low-floor design, Alstom is also actively contributing to other significant projects. A prime example is their role in producing new battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) for the DART+ (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) network expansion, a project pivotal to enhancing suburban rail capacity and sustainability in the capital. This long-standing presence and ongoing investment underscore Alstom’s commitment to supporting Ireland’s transport objectives. Their global expertise, further demonstrated by recent projects like the delivery of Innovia APM (Automated People Mover) trains to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, showcases their capability in diverse transit solutions, knowledge which can be beneficially applied to the Luas O&M contract.

Conclusions

The formation of a joint venture between Alstom and ATM Group marks a significant development in the competitive landscape for the Luas operations and maintenance contract. This strategic alliance brings together Alstom’s profound expertise as a rolling stock manufacturer and systems integrator, with a deep-seated history in supplying and understanding the Luas trams, and ATM Group’s extensive experience in managing large-scale, multimodal urban transport operations. The Luas system itself is a critical artery in Dublin’s public transport network, serving a vast number of passengers annually and playing an indispensable role in the city’s economic and social functioning. The renewal of its O&M contract is, therefore, a matter of considerable public interest and importance.

The joint proposal, as outlined by the partners, intends to focus on delivering tangible improvements in operational efficiency, elevating the customer service experience, championing sustainability initiatives, and integrating cutting-edge technologies. These pillars align well with the evolving expectations for modern urban transit systems, which demand not only reliability and safety but also environmental responsibility and adaptability to future needs. Alstom’s continued investment in Ireland, evidenced by its role in the DART+ project and its long-term supply relationship with Luas, signals a strong commitment to the Irish rail sector. The collaboration with ATM Group is poised to offer Transport Infrastructure Ireland a robust and comprehensive bid, potentially setting new benchmarks for light rail operation in the country. Ultimately, the success of this or any bid will be measured by its ability to deliver a high-performing, passenger-focused, and sustainable Luas system that continues to effectively serve the growing needs of Dublin for years to come. The tender process will undoubtedly be keenly watched by industry stakeholders and the commuting public alike.

Company Summaries:

• Alstom: A global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, Alstom develops and markets systems, equipment, and services for the transport sector. Alstom offers a complete range of solutions, from high-speed trains, metros, monorails, and trams, to integrated systems, customised services, infrastructure, signalling, and digital mobility solutions. Alstom has a significant presence in Ireland, having supplied the entire Luas tram fleet and currently involved in projects like the DART+ battery-electric train fleet.
• ATM Group (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi): ATM is the public transport company of Milan, Italy, managing a wide range of services including metro lines, tram networks, bus routes, and other mobility services. It is renowned for its experience in operating complex urban transport systems, focusing on efficiency, innovation, and customer satisfaction within a major European city.