Hellenic Train Orders Alstom Trains: €393M Boost for Greek Rail

ATHENS, Greece – In a landmark move set to accelerate the modernization of Greece’s rail network, Hellenic Train has awarded Alstom a €393 million contract for 23 new-generation Coradia Stream electric trains. This significant fleet acquisition, which includes a 10-year maintenance agreement, is a cornerstone of a wider investment strategy by parent company FS Italiane to align Greek railways with modern European standards.

Hellenic Train, Greece’s primary private rail operator and a subsidiary of Italy’s Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Group (FS Italiane), has finalised the agreement with Alstom for the supply of a new electric fleet. The order comprises 11 units designed for suburban commuter services and 12 units configured for long-distance intercity routes. The deal represents a critical step in the operator’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency across the national network. “We are working towards a railway system that does not merely follow European developments, but meets them with confidence,” stated Roberto Rinaudo, CEO of Hellenic Train, highlighting the project’s ambition.

The Coradia Stream trains, to be manufactured at Alstom’s Savigliano plant in Italy, are a proven platform developed for the European market. Each six-car unit will operate at a maximum speed of 160 km/h and will be equipped with the ERTMS Level 2 European Rail Traffic Management System, ensuring compliance with the latest EU standards for safety and interoperability. The intercity variants will accommodate 335 passengers, while the suburban versions will offer a higher capacity of 362 seats. Onboard amenities will be tailored for modern travel, featuring large luggage racks, power sockets, dedicated spaces for bicycles, and a digital passenger information system with high-precision passenger counting sensors.

This fleet renewal is a key component of a much larger strategic vision for Greek railways, bankrolled by its Italian parent company. In May, FS Italiane signed a comprehensive agreement with the Greek Ministry of Transport, pledging a total investment of €760 million towards modernizing the country’s rail system. The acquisition of these TSI-compliant, multi-system electric trains from Alstom directly supports this goal, aiming to improve service quality, safety, and reliability while progressively replacing older rolling stock and boosting sustainable transport options in Greece.

Key Takeaways

• Major Fleet Modernization: The order for 23 advanced EMUs represents one of the most significant rolling stock investments in Greece in recent years, directly enhancing both commuter and intercity services.
• Strategic Alignment with Europe: Equipping the new trains with ERTMS Level 2 and ensuring compliance with European TSIs is a crucial step towards integrating the Greek network with the wider European rail system.
• FS Italiane’s Commitment: The deal underscores the long-term investment strategy of Hellenic Train’s parent company, FS Italiane, which is injecting significant capital to elevate Greece’s railway infrastructure and services.

Editor’s Analysis

This acquisition is more than a simple procurement deal; it is a clear signal of intent from FS Italiane to fundamentally transform the Greek railway landscape. By introducing a standardized, modern, and interoperable fleet like the Coradia Stream, Hellenic Train is not just improving passenger comfort but is also laying the technical groundwork for future cross-border services and greater integration with the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The implementation of ERTMS Level 2 is particularly noteworthy, as it moves Greece away from legacy national signalling systems and towards the European standard, a prerequisite for seamless international traffic. This move positions Hellenic Train to become a more significant player in the Southeast European rail market, leveraging its strategic geographic location with state-of-the-art, reliable rolling stock.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many new trains has Hellenic Train ordered?
Hellenic Train has ordered a total of 23 Coradia Stream electric multiple units from Alstom, split between 11 suburban and 12 intercity configurations.

What is the total value of the contract?
The contract is valued at €393 million, which includes the supply of the 23 trains and associated maintenance services for a period of 10 years.

What key modern features will these trains have?
The trains will be equipped with the ERTMS Level 2 signalling system, will have a maximum speed of 160 km/h, and will feature modern passenger amenities such as power sockets, Wi-Fi connectivity readiness, digital information displays, and dedicated spaces for bicycles and pushchairs.