Israel is becoming the latest country to electrify its rail network and replace diesel locomotives with electric ones.
As part of this programme, a contract for 62 TRAXX AC locomotives has been placed by Israel Railways with Bombardier Transportation, with an option for a further 32.
Designed for speeds up to 160 km/h, the new TRAXX AC locomotives will primarily be used to haul Israel’s existing fleet of Bombardier double deck carriages.
Speaking at the contract signing, Israel Railways CEO Boaz Tzafrir said: “The Israel Railways electrification project is advancing and becoming a reality.
“The transition to electric operation, a standard practice in all advanced countries, will be a significant leap forward in every field relating to the operation of the Israel Railways and a key factor in Israel Railways’ future growth.”
The contact is reported to be worth around €230 million and delivery is expected to commence late in 2017.
