CP Portugal: Alstom/DST EMUs for Sustainable Rail Expansion

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Introduction

CP – Comboios de Portugal has finalized a contract with the Alstom/DST consortium for the procurement of 117 new electric multiple units (EMUs), representing the largest rolling stock acquisition in the company’s history.

Project Details

The EUR 746 million investment encompasses 62 trains for urban services and 55 for regional routes. It also includes spare parts, specialized tools, and the construction of a new maintenance workshop in Guifões, Matosinhos. Of the total, EUR 117.6 million will be co-financed by European funds, and EUR 212.5 million will be provided by Portugal’s Environmental Fund.

Timeline and Approvals

The initial units are slated for delivery in 2029. The contract is currently undergoing standard approval procedures before the Court of Auditors. The signing of the agreement followed a period of delay due to legal proceedings concerning the tender award. CP is assessing options to expedite the delivery schedule, given the continued growth in passenger numbers, and aims to bring forward the initial arrivals.

Fleet Modernization and Expansion

The new fleet aims to modernize CP’s operations and expand capacity to accommodate increasing demand. It is also designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance service quality across Portugal’s national network. Under Council of Ministers Resolution 141-A/2025 of 22 September, the operator is activating an option to purchase an additional 36 urban units, further bolstering network capacity in key metropolitan areas.

Company Statement

CP emphasized that the agreement highlights its long-term dedication to sustainable mobility and its goal of continued service improvement for passengers. “The delivery of this rolling stock allows for the renewal and modernisation of part of CP’s fleet and the strengthening of its supply capacity. Furthermore, it will enable the improvement of CP’s service quality levels, as well as increased energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs,” the company stated.

Conclusion

The contract between CP – Comboios de Portugal and the Alstom/DST consortium involves the supply of 117 new electric multiple units, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2029. The EUR 746 million investment includes provisions for urban and regional trains, along with infrastructure and spare parts. The project is partially financed by European and Portuguese funds and aims to modernize the fleet and enhance passenger services.

Company Summary

CP – Comboios de Portugal: The Portuguese national railway company, responsible for passenger and freight transport across the country.

Alstom/DST consortium: A partnership between Alstom and DST, formed to supply 117 new electric multiple units (EMUs) to CP – Comboios de Portugal.

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