DB lands mammoth contract for operation of Egypt high-speed network
Deutsche Bahn will operate Egypts future high-speed network, the construction of which marks the country’s largest rail project in history. The contract has an initial run time of 15 years and could be worth several billion euros.
The deal was concluded on the sidelines of the UN’s COP27 climate conference in Sharm-el-Sheikh between DB International Operations (DB IO) and the Egyptian government. The Northern African country is planning a 2,000-kilometre high-speed network. Once completed, it will the sixth-largest in the world. The first services on the initial line in the north of Egypt are planned for 2025.
German operator for German trains
DB will join Siemens Mobility in the project, which will finalised its contract with the Egyptian government earlier this year. The company will carry out the construction of three high-speed lines. On all three lines, Siemens Mobility will install the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, as well as the power supply system that will deliver efficient and continuous energy.
In terms of rolling stock, Siemens will deliver 41 Velaro eight car high-speed trains, 94 Desiro high-capacity four car regional train sets, and 41 Vectron freight locomotives. These units will be operated by DB IO, along with the infrastructure. For this, the operator will enter into a joint venture with local player Elsewedy Electric (EE).
Egypt marks the third international market for DB IO, after previous deals in Canada and India.
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Alexandria – Aswan or Cairo – Abu Simbel (each around 1100 km) would be a nice nigth train connections. DB has no experience in that business, and it seems no such trains haven been ordered.