Alstom and Siemens shortlisted for California High Speed Bullet Train Contract

Sacramento, United States (Urban Transport News): In a significant stride toward advancing California's high-speed rail initiative, the California High-Speed Rail Authority has announced the shortlist of potential suppliers for its electrified high-speed trains. This development comes hot on the heels of a monumental federal investment of nearly $3.1 billion in the state's high-speed rail project, earmarked specifically for the acquisition of new electric trains. The shortlisted teams, Alstom Transportation Inc. and Siemens Mobility Inc., mark a pivotal moment in propelling the project forward.

The identified shortlist consists of two global industry leaders: Alstom Transportation Inc. and Siemens Mobility Inc. These selected teams are poised to play a crucial role in the forthcoming Request for Proposals (RFP) phase, with the objective of securing state-of-the-art electrified high-speed trainsets capable of reaching speeds up to 220 mph.

Brian Kelly, CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, expressed enthusiasm about the selection, stating, "These world-class vendors ensure that we are procuring the latest generation of high-speed trains. With this recent federal grant, we are able to move forward with this major step on the project, purchasing trains capable of speeds of more than 220 mph to move passengers here in California in a way that transforms the passenger rail experience."

This development follows the Board of Directors' approval on August 24, 2023, for the release of a Request for Qualifications for the trainsets and related services contract. The upcoming contract will align with the Buy America Act, ensuring a commitment to domestic manufacturing. The scope of the procurement includes trainsets, a driving simulator, and associated services.

The anticipated timeline involves the release of the Request for Proposals in the coming months, followed by the contract award later in the year. The Trainset and Related Services contract will be funded, in part, by the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (Fed-State National) Program grant received in December 2023.

The comprehensive scope of work for the contract encompasses the design, manufacture, storage, integration, testing, and commissioning of the trainsets. Additionally, it includes a 30-year maintenance commitment, provision of spares, development and provision of design criteria, and participation in testing and commissioning activities. The contract further covers the operation and maintenance of related equipment in designated facilities.

Since the commencement of construction, the High-Speed Rail Authority has generated over 12,000 construction jobs, benefitting residents primarily in the Central Valley. The ongoing project deploys approximately 1,500 workers daily to various high-speed rail construction sites. Notably, the Authority has initiated extensions, increasing the current 119 miles under construction to a future 171 miles of electrified high-speed rail, connecting Merced to Bakersfield.

The landscape of California's Central Valley is witnessing substantial transformation with more than 25 active construction sites. Additionally, the Authority has achieved environmental clearance for 422 miles of the high-speed rail program, stretching from the Bay Area to the Los Angeles Basin.

The unveiling of potential suppliers for electrified high-speed trains represents a pivotal juncture in the progress of California's high-speed rail project. The collaboration with industry leaders Alstom Transportation Inc. and Siemens Mobility Inc. underscores the Authority's commitment to ensuring cutting-edge technology and a transformative passenger experience. As this project accelerates, it not only signifies advancements in rail travel but also contributes significantly to job creation and economic development in the region.