Alstom has signed a ten-year framework agreement with Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail (IE) for up to 750 new X’trapolis commuter rail cars for Ireland’s DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) network, with a firm initial order for 19 five-car trains, valued at €270 million, including a 15-year support services contract.
Henri Poupart-Lafarge, Alstom chairman and CEO, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan T.D., and Anne Graham, chief executive of the National Transport Authority, joined Iarnród Éireann’s chief executive, Jim Meade at IE’s Inchicore Works to formally sign the contract which will see the replacement and expansion of the DART fleet as part of the DART+ Program funded by the National Transport Authority under the National Development Plan 2021-2030.
Due to enter service in 2025, the initial order is for six five-car electric multiple units (EMUs) and thirteen five-car battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs), capable of journeys beyond 80 kilometers outside the electrified network under battery power, and the first modern battery fleet in Ireland. Energy stored in the battery system will be replenished via fast charging stations at chosen terminus locations and by recovering braking energy while the train is in motion. This capability will deliver emission-free connectivity and capacity ahead of electrification of the full DART+ network. Alstom will continue to support the DART fleet for a period of 15 years, providing technical support and spares, and deploying its HealthHub and TrainScanner technologies for predictive maintenance.
Each 82-meter train will have space for 550 passengers with wide, walk-though gangways, low-level floor, and an automatic retractable step to maximize accessibility. Other features include dedicated cycle and family areas; enhanced passenger features such as charging facilities for mobile phones, e-bikes and e-scooters; and advanced CCTV systems throughout the train, to enhance safety and security for customers and employees.