The Italian private high-speed operator Italo has ordered 26 Velaro Multi System trains from Siemens Mobility, with an option for an additional 14 units. The contract, valued at approximately EUR 3 billion, also includes full maintenance of the fleet for 30 years.
Italo Holding, the company that operates Italo’s private high-speed services in Italy, has signed a contract with the German manufacturer Siemens Mobility for the supply of 26 Velaro Multi System trains.
The agreement includes an option for an additional 14 units, meaning the future fleet could reach 40 trains.
The contract is valued at approximately EUR 3 billion and covers both the delivery of the rolling stock and comprehensive maintenance services over a 30-year period.
320 km/h Trains, Each with 440 Seats
The new trains will consist of eight railcars each and will offer approximately 440 seats per train.
The trains will be capable of speeds of up to 320 km/h and will be equipped to operate on four different power supply systems:
- 1.5 kV direct current;
- 3 kV direct current;
- 15 kV alternating current;
- 25 kV alternating current.
The multi-system configuration will allow them to operate on rail networks with different electrical standards, which could facilitate their use on international services as well.
The trains will also be equipped with Starlink antennas, providing passengers with on-board satellite internet access.
Built in Germany
Siemens Mobility will manufacture the trains at its plant in Krefeld, Germany.
“Italo Holding’s decision represents a strong vote of confidence in Siemens Mobility and in Velaro, one of the world’s most successful high-speed rail platforms,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility.
According to the German company, trains in the Velaro family have traveled over 3 billion kilometers to date across several countries.
Maintenance for 30 Years
The contract includes comprehensive maintenance of the fleet for the next three decades. The work will be carried out at the Siemens Mobility depot in Dortmund.
The condition of the trains will be monitored via the Railigent X digital platform, which collects and analyzes technical data from the vehicles.
Siemens will also use digital services based on artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance, so that potential malfunctions can be identified before they cause trains to be taken out of service.
The monitoring systems will be used throughout the fleet’s entire service life, with the aim of increasing train availability and reducing time spent in the depot.
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