Tourism Bookings NZ introduces
Comboios de Portugal is the national railway operator and in partnership with the Alstom/DST consortium, made a first ever order of 117 new electric multiple unit (EMU) trains. This partnership has never before acquired rolling stock of this type and defines the start of modernizing and expanding the CPs fleet system.
This deal, worth €746 million, will also be funded by the European Union and the Environmental Fund in addition to public financing. Due to the rapid expansion of CP, the company has requested to accelerate the delivery schedule which will allow them to receive the first trains in 2029.
The order consists of two categories of trains: 62 units for urban and commuter services and 55 units for regional routes. These trains are part of a broader strategy to improve service quality, increase capacity, and address the rising demand for public transport services in Portugal’s key metropolitan areas.
CP’s decision to invest in these modern EMUs stems from the need to replace older trains and enhance the overall quality of the rail network. The trains will bring increased energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs, thanks to their advanced technology. The investment will also facilitate a better passenger experience, particularly for those traveling during peak hours.
Along with the trains themselves, the agreement includes provisions for spare parts, specialized tools, and the construction of a maintenance depot in Guifões, a suburb of Matosinhos. This depot will ensure that the new fleet is maintained effectively, supporting the ongoing operation of CP’s trains.
The planned fleet overhaul aims to alleviate capacity issues on high-demand routes and is designed to handle the expected increase in passengers as urbanization continues. CP has acknowledged the importance of this upgrade in order to meet growing demand for cleaner, more efficient transport options, especially in densely populated regions.
The contract process faced delays due to legal challenges surrounding the tender award. However, CP remains committed to recovering lost time by exploring ways to expedite the delivery schedule. These efforts are part of a broader push to modernize Portugal’s rail network and maintain its competitive edge in providing high-quality, sustainable transportation solutions.
In addition to the 117 trains already ordered, CP has the option to purchase up to 36 more units for urban services, if needed, further enhancing the fleet. The financial structure of the deal allows for substantial contributions from European funds and an Environmental Fund, with the goal of maintaining fiscal sustainability while making meaningful improvements to public transport infrastructure.
This acquisition is aligned with the long-term vision of Comboios de Portugal to offer more reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective services for its passengers. By investing in modern rail solutions, CP hopes to contribute to Portugal’s broader sustainability goals while accommodating the growing demand for rail transport.
CP’s modernization program also reflects the broader trend in European rail transport toward reducing carbon emissions and improving overall network efficiency. With this investment, the Portuguese operator aims to further integrate the rail network into Europe’s larger transport framework, offering faster, greener, and more reliable options for commuters and travelers.
The new rolling stock will likely create a boost to the local economy, particularly through the development of the maintenance depot in Guifões. This facility is expected to bring new jobs and improve the infrastructure in the area. Additionally, it will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term reliability of the new fleet by enabling more efficient maintenance operations.
CP’s efforts are also aligned with the European Union’s green transport goals, helping to make Portugal’s transport network more environmentally friendly by investing in electric, energy-efficient solutions.
Travelers on the Comboios de Portugal network can look forward to several improvements as the new trains are gradually introduced starting in 2029. Key benefits include:
These upgrades will be particularly valuable to daily commuters who rely on the trains to travel between urban areas like Lisbon, Porto, and Matosinhos. Passengers will benefit from more reliable and efficient services, supporting both daily commutes and leisure travel.
As the new trains are integrated into the network, Comboios de Portugal is likely to see improvements in service reliability, punctuality, and overall network efficiency. This fleet renewal is part of a broader effort to revitalize the country’s rail infrastructure, ensuring that it remains a competitive and sustainable mode of transport for years to come.
By focusing on sustainability, capacity expansion, and energy efficiency, Portugal is taking significant steps toward a more green and connected future for its rail network. This investment in electric rail transport also aligns with EU objectives, positioning Portugal as a leader in environmentally responsible transportation.
