China orders 40 additional CRH1 High-Speed Trains from Bombardier Sifang

Bombardier Transportation announced today that its Chinese joint venture, Bombardier Sifang (Qingdao) Transportation Ltd. (BST), has received an order for 40 additional CRH1 high-speed trainsets from the Chinese Ministry of Railways (MOR) valued at approximately 5.2 billion CNY (591 million euros,$761 million US). Bombardier’s share of the contract is valued at approximately 2.5 billion CNY (289 million euros, $373 million US)(1). BST is a joint venture between Bombardier and CSR Sifang Rolling Stock Co., Ltd.

Each of the new trainsets, consisting of 8 cars can carry a total of 604 passengers with a maximum speed of 250 km/h. Deliveries of the additional cars will begin in September 2010 and will be completed by the end of May 2011. With this additional order, a total of 1280 CRH1 cars for operational speed up to 250km/h have been ordered from Bombardier Sifang in China so far.

This order complements the largest single order for rail passenger cars placed at one time in Chinese rail history and corroborates the success of the CRH1 – also member of the BOMBARDIER ZEFIRO high and very high-speed family. Amongst other additional features, the new CRH1 trains have been enhanced with a dedicated VIP car incorporating 1st class seating.

Stephane Rambaud Measson, President, Passengers Division, Bombardier Transportation commented : “This contract further demonstrates the high levels of confidence the Chinese Ministry of Railways places in Bombardier and BST. The company’s technological expertise and proven capabilities in the international rail industry will go a long way in our endeavor to build a strong local industry in China, which is already well on its way to successful completion of our present orders.”

Jianwei Zhang, President and Chief Country Representative, Bombardier China, further confirmed Bombardier’s commitment to the market in China. He said: “The Chinese market represents a tremendous opportunity to us where we have been able to succeed by offering innovative and highly reliable products as well as by establishing local roots. Today, Bombardier holds a top level presence in this exciting market and we are committed to continue supporting our customers in China”.