Alstom’s Adessia Stream B: NZ’s Battery-Electric Rail

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Introduction

Alstom has been awarded a EUR 538 million contract by the Greater Wellington Regional Council to design, manufacture, and supply 18 five-car Adessia Stream B battery-electric trains. The contract also includes 35 years of FlexCare Perform fleet maintenance for the new trains, which will operate on the Wairarapa and Manawatu lines in New Zealand.

Contract Details

The contract, valued at EUR 538 million, encompasses the design, manufacture, and supply of 18 five-car Adessia Stream B battery-electric trains. Additionally, Alstom will provide 35 years of FlexCare Perform fleet maintenance. The trains are scheduled to replace existing diesel locomotive-hauled trains that are due for retirement in 2028 and 2029.

Operational Capabilities and Features

The Adessia Stream B battery-electric trains will be the first Battery-Electric Multiple Unit (BEMU) commuter trains in New Zealand. The trains are designed to enable emission-free operations on non-electrified segments of the Wellington rail network. Each train will have a maximum capacity of 475 passengers and a top operating speed of 120 km/h. The trains will include amenities such as wheelchair spaces, bike storage, luggage areas, and facilities for prams, along with toilets, vending machines, and water dispensers.

Manufacturing and Maintenance

The trains will be manufactured at Alstom’s Savli manufacturing facility in India. Alstom will operate a maintenance facility in Masterton, purpose-built by the Greater Wellington Regional Council. This facility will be equipped with the latest technologies for fleet maintenance and battery servicing.

Technology and Design

The new trains will utilize several Alstom technologies, including HealthHub condition-based and predictive maintenance technologies and a connected driver advisory system. The trains will operate with intelligent train control and will utilize onboard batteries for emission-free operation through the 9km Remutaka Tunnel. The train livery, named ‘Tūhono’, will incorporate Te ao Māori and cultural elements designed by Indigenous Design and Innovation.

Conclusion

The Greater Wellington Regional Council has contracted Alstom to supply 18 Adessia Stream B battery-electric trains and provide fleet maintenance for 35 years. The trains, set to replace existing diesel units, will operate on the Wairarapa and Manawatu lines, enhancing regional transport capabilities.

Company Summary

Alstom: Alstom is a global leader in the railway industry, providing rolling stock, signalling, and infrastructure solutions. The company is involved in various projects worldwide, focusing on sustainable and innovative transport systems.

Greater Wellington Regional Council: The Greater Wellington Regional Council is a local government body responsible for regional planning and services in the Wellington region of New Zealand, including public transport.

Indigenous Design and Innovation: Indigenous Design and Innovation is a Māori design agency.

Technology

BEMU: Battery-Electric Multiple Unit.

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