A new era of sustainable rail transport is set to begin in southern France, as the Région Sud and Swiss train manufacturer Stadler sign a contract for eight hybrid trains to serve the Chemins de fer de Provence (CP) line between Nice and Digne-les-Bains.
The tailor-made, metre-gauge hybrid trains will combine battery power with a biodiesel engine, significantly reducing emissions along the 150-kilometre route. According to Stadler, the hybrid drive will cut CO₂ emissions by up to 77 per cent compared to the current diesel fleet.
Manufactured at Stadler’s facility in Bussnang, Switzerland, each two-car unit will measure nearly 40 metres in length and accommodate 184 passengers. Charging infrastructure for the onboard batteries will be installed in Nice, enabling the trains to operate on battery power in urban areas, while biodiesel will support rural travel.
“This is one of our largest contracts for the French market, and we are proud to contribute to more sustainable mobility in the Région Sud,” said Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales at Stadler. “Passengers can expect a comfortable, modern travel experience with reduced environmental impact.”
The new fleet will replace CP’s ageing diesel trains and is scheduled for commissioning in 2028. The vehicles are specifically designed for CP’s 1,000 mm narrow-gauge network, with a minimum curve radius of just 100 metres—ideal for the winding mountainous route.
The initiative aligns with the French region’s broader strategy for greener transport and supports EU goals for reducing carbon emissions in mobility. The project is expected to offer a significant leap in operational efficiency and passenger comfort while preserving the scenic character of the historic line.
Hybrid trains technical data
- Client: Région Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
- Operational Network: Line Nice – Digne
- Length of Operational Network: 151 km
- Track Gauge: 1,000 mm
- Minimum curve radius: 100 m
- Designation: BEMU Bem 4/8
- Power Supply: Diesel / Batteries
- Number of Vehicles: 8
- Commissioning: 2028
- Seating Capacity: 86
- Standing Capacity: 98
- Total Capacity: 184
- Length: 39,874 mm
- Width: 2,500 mm
- Height: 3,900 mm
- Wheelbase of Bogie: 2,000 mm BoM / 1,700 mm BoP
- Wheel Diameter BoM: 810 mm
- Wheel Diameter BoP: 705 mm
- Maximum Axle Load: 14 t
- Maximum Power at Wheel: 800 kW
- Starting Tractive Effort: 120 kN
- Maximum Speed: 100 km/h
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