Alstom has signed a ten-year framework agreement with Irish Rail (IE) for up to 750 new X’trapolis commuter rail cars.
The contract to replace and expand the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) fleet is part of the DART+ Programme funded by Ireland’s National Transport Authority.
Alstom’s modular X’trapolis trains will be customised for DART. Each 82-metre train will have space for 550 passengers with wide gangways, a low-level floor and automatic retractable step for improved. accessibility.
Other features include cycle and family areas, charging facilities for mobile phones, e-bikes and e-scooters, and CCTV.
IE’s initial order is for 19 five-car X’trapolis trains, and is valued at 270 million euros (304.93m USD).
The trains, due to enter service in 2025, will be made up of six five-car electric multiple units (EMUs) and thirteen five-car battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs).
Capable of journeys beyond 80 kilometres outside the electrified network, these will make up Ireland’s first modern battery fleet.
Energy stored in the battery system will be replenished via fast charging stations at chosen termini and recovering braking energy while the train is in motion. This will support emission-free connectivity and capacity ahead of electrification of the full DART+ network.
The initial order includes 15 years support for the DART fleet. Alstom will provide technical support and spares, and deploy its HealthHub and TrainScanner predictive maintenance technologies.
“Alstom is delighted to have been selected to deliver the new DART+ fleet. Ireland is a very important market to us, and the new electric and battery-electric X’trapolis fleet is a big step for making rail even more sustainable while transforming the passenger experience in the Greater Dublin area and beyond.”
