Rolls-Royce has secured a major contract to supply 50 mtu Series 4000 engines for a new fleet of high-speed trains being built by Stadler Bussnang AG for Saudi Arabia. The ten trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h on the key Dammam–Riyadh route, enhancing connections between the two cities and strengthening the country’s rail network.
Each train will be equipped with four 12V 4000 R64 mtu engines, each producing 1,500 kW, installed across two power cars. A further ten engines will be supplied as reserves and spares, ensuring uninterrupted passenger service during maintenance cycles. The contract also includes an option for 40 additional engines to power another ten trains.
The engines meet the latest EU Stage V emissions standards, contributing to cleaner and more efficient mobility solutions in the region. Designed to withstand extreme conditions, the mtu Series 4000 has already demonstrated its reliability in Saudi Arabia since 2012, with more than 70 engines currently in service.
“mtu engines ensure smooth operation despite extreme ambient conditions with temperatures above 50°C and the influence of desert dust,” said Christopher Weckbecker, Director Global Rail at Rolls-Royce. “Under these conditions, reliable air conditioning alone is essential for the survival of train passengers and personnel. We are delighted that all diesel-powered passenger trains on the Arabian Peninsula are powered by mtu Series 4000 engines – this is a strong vote of confidence in our outstanding products.”
Expanding rail capability in Saudi Arabia
The order supports Saudi Arabia Railways’ long-term goal of modernising and expanding passenger transport capacity between Dammam and Riyadh, a route of major economic significance.
“For us, mtu propulsion technology from Rolls-Royce is a central component in this project. It not only enables high speeds, but also meets the highest standards of environmental compatibility, energy efficiency and operational safety,” said Tobias Arnold, commercial project lead at Stadler.
Testing and entry into service
Before entering service, four of the new trains will undergo extensive test and approval runs in Europe and Saudi Arabia to ensure compliance with the region’s operational requirements.
Rolls-Royce emphasised that the order reflects both its global growth strategy and the strong reputation of mtu engines in regional markets. “This order supports our strategy by expanding further into regional growth markets, enlarging Rolls-Royce’s global footprint in rail applications,” Weckbecker added.
Since 2012, mtu engines have been central to Saudi Arabia’s high-speed rail development, powering trains across the Arabian Peninsula. With this latest order, Rolls-Royce further consolidates its role as a trusted technology partner in the Middle East’s evolving rail sector.
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