Portugal’s national rail operator, Comboios de Portugal (CP), has launched a sweeping modernization of its fleet with a record-breaking acquisition of 153 new electric trains, representing an investment of $800 million.
The historic deal marks CP’s largest-ever purchase of rolling stock. It aims to replace approximately 35% of the existing fleet with modern, more comfortable, and efficient units.
The primary contract, signed with a consortium of Alstom and DST, covers 117 new multiple units. Sixty-two of these units are earmarked for urban services, while 55 will serve regional routes.
CP retains an option for an additional 36 units, bringing the total potential order to 153 trains. The new trains are slated for operation on urban lines in Lisbon and Porto.
They will also enhance various regional connections across the country. The objective is to significantly boost the reliability and frequency of Portugal’s railway services.
Deliveries are projected to commence in the first quarter of 2029. The rollout is expected to span over approximately 40 months.
Alongside the fleet expansion, CP plans to construct a new maintenance workshop. This facility will be located in Guifões, Matosinhos, specifically to support the new units.
This investment underscores Portugal’s commitment to sustainable mobility and aims to elevate the quality of service for passengers.