Stadler Secures First 45 Hybrid Locomotive Order in Canada

VALENCIA, Spain – Stadler Rail has signed its first locomotive contract in Canada, supplying 45 hybrid locomotives to VIA Rail Canada as part of a $1.95 billion government investment in fleet renewal. The agreement includes a 20-year technical support and spare-parts contract covering VIA maintenance centres in Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver. No delivery date or standalone contract value was disclosed.

What Does This Contract Cover?

The contract covers the design, manufacture, assembly and delivery of 45 hybrid locomotives to VIA Rail Canada. The diesel-electric propulsion system is paired with traction battery modules that power on-board auxiliary systems, train electrical supply and traction, delivering up to 4 MW at the wheels and a starting tractive force of 350 kN. The units are specified for operating temperatures down to -50°C and will recover braking energy for station-area battery-only operation. The locomotives achieve a recyclability rate above 92 per cent and a material recovery rate above 95 per cent.

Key Contract Data

How Does This Compare to Similar Contracts?

The individual contract value was not disclosed by Stadler or VIA Rail. The order forms part of a $1.95 billion Canadian government investment to renew VIA Rail’s locomotive fleet. (Source: Government of Canada, 2025)

In a 2025 European comparison, Copenhagen’s Metroselskabet tendered its M5 metro package at EUR 1.35 billion, covering civil works and transport systems for a section scheduled to open in 2036. (Source: Railway Supply, 2025)

For maintenance-specific rail contracts in 2025, Subros Limited secured a ₹52.18 crore order from Indian Railways for an annual maintenance contract covering locomotive cab HVAC units. (Source: Subros Limited, 2025) Knorr-Bremse also won an HVAC overhaul contract for Great Western Railway’s Class 165 fleet, with work beginning January 2025. (Source: Knorr-Bremse, 2025)

Editor’s Analysis

Stadler’s Canadian market entry breaks a locomotive supply environment historically dominated by North American builders, while the 20-year maintenance commitment establishes a long-term service foothold in four cities. Battery-mode station operation aligns VIA Rail with Canadian federal emissions targets for passenger transport. Sweden’s rail investment surge, including rapid train Wi-Fi connectivity gains, shows that operators pairing fleet renewal with digital service upgrades gain measurable ridership advantages. (Source: Business Sweden, 2025)

FAQ

Q: How many hybrid locomotives is VIA Rail ordering from Stadler?
A: VIA Rail has ordered 45 hybrid locomotives from Stadler, marking Stadler’s first locomotive sale in Canada. The units combine diesel-electric traction with battery-assisted power delivering up to 4 MW at the wheels.

Q: What is the value of the Stadler-VIA Rail locomotive contract?
A: The individual contract value has not been officially disclosed. The order is part of a $1.95 billion Canadian government investment programme to renew VIA Rail’s locomotive fleet.

Q: Where will the Stadler locomotives be maintained and supported?
A: Stadler will provide support through a Canadian subsidiary with staff based at VIA Rail maintenance centres in Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver. The 20-year agreement covers technical support and spare parts supply.