The municipality of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, has placed an order with Alstom Transport for 23 trainsets, for a total amount of around €200 million. They are meant for Amsterdam's existing metro lines, with commercial service starting at the end of 2012. The contract includes an option for additional trainsets for the north/south line that is under construction.
The 6-coach metro trainsets, part of Alstom's Metropolis range, will be produced at its Valenciennes, France, and Katowice, Poland, sites. The first trainset is to be delivered in spring 2012.
The trainsets will feature large doors, a continuous low floor, and extra wide chairs and gangways between the coaches. Dynamic travel information, communication connections and transparent interiors are intended to improve passengers' safety and comfort. Total capacity is 960 passengers per train.
"Alstom is proud to be the supplier of this new generation metro's for the city of Amsterdam. A metro that, thanks to its unique features, will strengthen the bond of the Amsterdam people with their transportation system," said Andreas Knitter, North Europe general manager for Alstom Transport.
The order is part of the implementation of a public transport policy adopted by the municipality of Amsterdam, the city region, and the operator, GVB. In addition to the new north/south line, plans include the renovation of the east line and the rebuilding of the Amstelveen line.