Alstom Secures a One Billion Euro Contract for Melbourne's Metro
Alstom, as part of the TransitLinX Alliance, has secured a €1.0 billion order for the Eastern section of the Suburban Rail Loop project in Melbourne, according to the company's press release. This portion is part of a total €4.9 billion contract awarded by the Suburban Rail Loop Authority.
Details of the Contract
Alstom's order includes the supply of 13 automated Metropolis metro trains, each consisting of four cars, the company states. Additionally, the manufacturer will provide the Urbalis Forward CBTC train control system, cybersecurity solutions, communications, and platform screen doors. The trains will be assembled at Alstom's facility in Dandenong, near Melbourne. The contract also includes a 15-year maintenance service through the FlexCare Perform solution, covering trains, signaling, and infrastructure.
Operational Aspects and Maintenance
The trains will operate at automation level 4, which means they will be driverless, according to the group. Maintenance will be carried out at a specially constructed depot in Heatherton, designed to accommodate up to 36 trains eventually. The first Metropolis trains are expected to enter service by 2035, as per the schedule. The TransitLinX Alliance, which includes Alstom, also comprises John Holland, KBR, WSP, and RATP Dev. The contract will be recorded in Alstom's financial statements in the third quarter of the fiscal year 2025-2026.
Project Significance
The Suburban Rail Loop is the largest rail infrastructure project in Australia, the press release notes. The complete line will stretch 90 kilometers across Melbourne's suburbs, while the Eastern section covered by this contract includes 26 kilometers and six underground stations. This will be the second driverless train fleet in Australia, following the one provided by Alstom for Sydney's metro, which commenced service in 2019. Alstom, which reported a revenue of €18.5 billion as of March 31, 2025, employs over 86,000 people across 63 countries.
