Hyundai Rotem’s Taichung Metro Win: Blue Line Triumph

Hyundai Rotem Strengthens Taiwanese Rail Presence with Taichung Metro Contract

TAICHUNG, TAIWAN – May 15, 2025

In a significant development for Taiwan’s urban rail infrastructure and a testament to its growing international prowess, South Korean rolling stock manufacturer Hyundai Rotem has officially secured a substantial contract valued at approximately Won 420 billion (around $298 million) to supply advanced automated trains for the Taichung Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system’s Blue Line project. This venture marks another milestone in Hyundai Rotem’s successful engagement with the Taiwanese railway sector. The new fleet of driverless trains is poised to revolutionize commuting in Taichung, Taiwan’s vibrant second-largest city, by offering a modern, efficient, and high-capacity transit solution. The project underscores a global trend towards enhancing urban mobility through sophisticated rail technology, and for Hyundai Rotem, it solidifies its reputation as a key provider of comprehensive railway solutions in the competitive Asian market and beyond. This article will delve into the specifics of the Taichung Blue Line project, the technical attributes of the new rolling stock, Hyundai Rotem’s strategic positioning in Taiwan, and the broader implications of this contract.

Enhancing Taichung’s Urban Mobility: The Blue Line Initiative

Taichung, a bustling metropolis with a population nearing 2.8 million, is actively expanding its public transportation network to cater to its growing urban population and to alleviate traffic congestion. The Taichung MRT system is a cornerstone of this urban development strategy, and the Blue Line represents a critical phase in its expansion. Following the Green Line, the Blue Line is the second of four planned metro lines designed to create a comprehensive rail network across the city. Spanning a distance of 24.78 kilometers, the Blue Line will feature 20 strategically located stations, connecting key residential, commercial, and industrial zones. This new arterial route is anticipated to significantly improve connectivity and reduce travel times for daily commuters, including a large number of local workers and students, thereby fostering greater economic activity and enhancing the quality of life for Taichung’s residents. The integration of this line is pivotal for creating a more sustainable and accessible urban environment.

Advanced Rolling Stock for a Modern Metro: Features and Benefits

The centerpiece of this contract is the provision of state-of-the-art automated trains, specifically designed for the operational demands of the Taichung Blue Line. Each trainset will be configured as a three-car formation, engineered to accommodate up to 530 passengers, balancing capacity with operational flexibility. These trains are designed to operate at a maximum speed of 80 km/h, ensuring swift transit between stations. A key design feature is the use of lightweight aluminum for the car bodies. This advanced material choice offers multiple advantages: it significantly reduces the overall weight of the trainsets, which in turn contributes to lower energy consumption and reduced operational costs. Furthermore, aluminum provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of the rolling stock and minimizing maintenance requirements. The automated nature of these trains also points towards increased operational efficiency, potentially allowing for higher service frequencies and enhanced system reliability, crucial for a high-demand urban metro line.

Building on Success: Hyundai Rotem’s Proven Track Record in Taiwan

Hyundai Rotem’s success in securing the Taichung Blue Line contract was not an isolated achievement but rather the culmination of a long-standing and positive presence in the Taiwanese railway market. The company has a well-established history of delivering high-quality rolling stock and railway systems in Taiwan. Previous notable projects include the supply of trains for the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA), rolling stock for the Kaohsiung Metro’s Red Line, and contributions to the Taipei Metro system. These successful deployments have allowed Hyundai Rotem to build a strong reputation for reliability, technological excellence, and an understanding of local operational needs. As a Hyundai Rotem official stated, “A series of successful projects and positive evaluations in Taiwan helped us secure this contract. We will do our utmost to deliver safe and reliable trains for the people of Taichung.” This deep-rooted experience and the trust cultivated through past performance were undoubtedly critical factors in their selection for this prestigious project.

A Global Contender: Hyundai Rotem’s Expanding International Footprint

The Taichung Blue Line contract further solidifies Hyundai Rotem’s position as a formidable player in the global railway manufacturing industry. This Taiwanese success story is part of a broader pattern of international expansion for the South Korean firm. Recently, Hyundai Rotem has made significant inroads into other key markets. For instance, in February of the same year, the company secured a landmark Won 2.2 trillion (approximately $1.53 billion) contract to supply advanced double-decker electric trains to Morocco’s national railway operator, ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer), marking its strategic entry into the African rail market. Additionally, in January, Hyundai Rotem delivered further locomotives to Tanzania, bolstering the fleet for the new standard gauge railway line connecting Dar es Salaam to Morogoro. These diverse international achievements highlight Hyundai Rotem’s capability to meet varying global standards and project requirements, underscoring its technical versatility and competitive edge in a demanding worldwide market.

Conclusion: A New Era of Mobility for Taichung and Continued Growth for Hyundai Rotem

The awarding of the Won 420 billion contract to Hyundai Rotem for the Taichung Metro’s Blue Line automated trains marks a significant step forward for urban transportation in Taiwan’s second-largest city and a continued success for the South Korean manufacturer. This project is set to deliver substantial benefits to Taichung’s 2.8 million residents by providing a modern, efficient, and high-capacity transit solution, thereby easing congestion and enhancing connectivity across the 24.78km, 20-station line. The technical specifications of the rolling stock, including their three-car configuration accommodating 530 passengers, an operational speed of 80 km/h, and innovative lightweight aluminum car bodies, promise improved energy efficiency, durability, and overall system performance.
Hyundai Rotem’s selection is a clear endorsement of its established credentials in Taiwan, built upon a foundation of successfully completed projects for Taiwan Railways, the Kaohsiung Metro, and the Taipei Metro. This history of reliability and quality was instrumental in securing this new venture.
Furthermore, this contract should be viewed within the larger context of Hyundai Rotem’s expanding global influence. Recent major contracts in Morocco and ongoing deliveries to Tanzania demonstrate the company’s growing international stature and its ability to compete and win in diverse and challenging markets. Ultimately, the Taichung Blue Line project is not merely an infrastructure upgrade; it represents a commitment to sustainable urban development and a better quality of life for its citizens. For Hyundai Rotem, it reaffirms its role as a key partner in advancing global rail technology and infrastructure, promising safe, reliable, and modern transportation solutions for Taichung and beyond.

Company Summary:

Hyundai Rotem is a South Korean company, part of the Hyundai Motor Group, specializing in the manufacture of rolling stock (including high-speed trains, metro cars, trams, and locomotives), defense systems, and plant and machinery. Founded in 1977, it has grown to become a significant global player in the railway industry, exporting its products and technologies to numerous countries worldwide. The company is known for its comprehensive solutions, covering design, manufacturing, project management, and maintenance services for railway systems.