French engineering firm Alstom has announced its intention to bid again for the major Alstom TMB train contract. This lucrative deal, valued at over €300 million, involves building 39 new trains for Barcelona’s public transport operator, Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB). Consequently, this contract is crucial for expanding the city’s metro network.
The decision follows TMB’s move to declare the previous tender void on 24 December. Alstom was the sole bidder initially. However, TMB deemed its proposal “inadequate” because it lacked a specific financial offer alongside technical details.
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Home » Alstom TMB Train Contract: Firm to Re-Bid for €300m Barcelona Metro Deal
Alstom TMB Train Contract Vital for Metro Expansion
Procuring the 39 new trains is vital for Barcelona’s metro system growth. This is particularly important for the upcoming launch of Line 9’s central section. Of the new rolling stock, 22 trains are for L9. Meanwhile, the remaining 17 will improve service frequency on other lines: six for L1, three for L2, and four each for L3 and L4. Therefore, this investment is timely. It aligns with projections of record passenger numbers for TMB in 2025.
TMB wants to launch the new tender quickly. It aims to shorten the submission period to minimise project delays. This acquisition is one of several ongoing metro infrastructure investments modernising the network.
Controversy Surrounding the Alstom TMB Train Contract
The original tender process faced controversy. Initially, Alstom was barred from bidding. This was due to its inclusion on a United Nations list of companies with activities in occupied Palestinian territories. The ban contravened Barcelona City Council’s procurement policies.
However, a revised UN report cleared Alstom in September, lifting the ban. Subsequently, Alstom’s primary competitor, CAF, was added to the UN list. This prevented CAF from participating.
Alstom TMB Train Contract’s Economic Impact in Catalonia
Ahead of the new tender, Alstom will present an impact report. This highlights its significant economic and social contributions to Catalonia and Spain. The move strengthens its position as a key industrial partner. The firm operates a major factory in Santa Perpètua de Mogoda with around a thousand employees. This strategic presentation follows Foment del Treball’s recent economic warnings. It underscores the importance of major industrial contracts like the Alstom TMB train contract.
According to details from the report, Alstom supports over 7,300 jobs in Spain. It contributes €400 million to the national GDP. Additionally, it spends over €200 million with its network of 320 Catalan suppliers.
Alstom’s Commitment to Barcelona and the TMB Contract
Alstom justified its initial failure to provide a full financial bid. It stated the combined technical and economic requirements were highly demanding. The company has since affirmed its commitment to meeting TMB’s requirements. It describes the transport operator as a “strategic and valuable partner”. Therefore, Alstom is determined to secure the Alstom TMB train contract.
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