Talgo bases HS2 bid on Avril platform

Talgo Avril high-speed train in an HS2 station.

The company has based its offer for the supply of trains to HS2 on Avril – its latest generation rolling stock platform. This represents the latest evolution of very high-speed vehicles, which has been developed over several decades using experience gained from supplying trains to Spain, Saudi Arabia and Central Asia.

As a result, Talgo claims that its trains feature unique technology, proven over many years, which ensures world-class passenger experience and comfort, while maximising seating capacity and minimising carbon footprint and maintenance costs.

The company is keen to point out that it is the leading manufacturer in the ultra-competitive Spanish very high-speed rolling stock market; the only one in the world where almost all the global suppliers are present. Other comparable high-speed rail markets are dominated by a single, local manufacturer (France, Germany) or by a handful of companies, all of them domestically based (Italy, Japan).

Talgo UK’s Jon Veitch commented: “HS2 will be crucial as the UK economy grows.

“This project is unique in every way. It has the potential to transform mobility, and make a significant impact in many communities across the UK. It is the kind of opportunity which societies can only take or leave once in a century.

“We humbly believe that Talgo’s combination of experience and adaptivity is the best option for both train operating companies and taxpayers.”

Avril, Talgo’s latest development, was chosen by Spain’s Renfe to form the core of its very high-speed fleet, with thirty trains under construction. Talgo will provide full maintenance support over the projected thirty – year lifespan of the new Spanish fleet.

Some of the Avril technologies also contributed to Talgo’s recent success in a competitive bid for high-speed trains in Germany. With the working name of ECx, Deutsche Bahn has commissioned Talgo with a framework order for up to 100 trains, and has signed an initial contract for the supply of 23 units, some of which will be operated on the international Berlin-Amsterdam route.


Further Reading:

See the HS2 train designs from the other bidders:

Alstom
Bombardier/Hitachi
CAF
Siemens



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