Mercitalia Rail, the freight arm of the Italian railway holding Ferrovie dello Stato (FS), finalised an agreement with French manufacturer Alstom for 70 Traxx Universal locomotives. The contract has a value of 323 million euros and includes the possibility of adding 30 more locomotives.

With this deal, Alstom will also be tasked with the maintenance of these locomotives for the next 12 years. The first items are expected to be delivered by 2025, Alstom mentioned. An unspecified number of locomotives will also be equipped to carry out first and last-mile services. In other words, these locomotives will not require traction from another locomotive when travelling through unelectrified railways. The units will be produced in Vado Ligure, not too far from Genoa.

FS’ maxi plan to rejuvenate its fleet

This initiative is part of the FS’ plan to revolutionise its rolling stock fleet, which was announced in November 2022. When it comes to locomotives, FS said this plan would bring in around 400 new locomotives and roughly 3,600 wagons. The great majority of the locomotives, including the 70 included in the most recent deal, will be given to Mercitalia Rail. Moreover, the FS’ international rail freight arm, TX Logistik, is getting 80 new ones, half of which coming into service around the end of 2024.

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