China's large Bombardier train order

The CRH1

High-speed rail has proven to be incredibly successful in China with the trains eating into the profits of regional aviation companies, so it is not surprising to learn that Bombardier Transportation has received a $761 million order for 40 additional CRH1 high-speed trainsets from the Chinese Ministry of Railways.

The Canadian firm has said this is the fourth contract they have received for CRH1 high-speed trains, not just from China but the world over.

Bombardier's share of the contract, which is awarded for its Chinese joint venture Bombardier Sifang (Qingdao) Transportation Ltd., is valued at about $373 million.

It is not known which lines the trains will be used on, but Bombardier said it will start the delivery of the trains in September, aiming to complete by May.

With this additional order, a total of 1280 CRH1 cars for operational speeds of up to 250km/h have been ordered from Bombardier Sifang in China so far. Amongst other features, the new CRH1 trains have been enhanced with a dedicated VIP cars incorporating 1st class seating.

Chinese need for speed

Speaking about the large order, Jianwei Zhang, President and Chief Country Representative, Bombardier China, said: "The Chinese market represents a tremendous opportunity to us where we have been able to succeed by offering innovative and highly reliable products as well as by establishing local roots. Today, Bombardier holds a top level presence in this exciting market and we are committed to continue supporting our customers in China."

China has already placed a large order this year, when in June China Railway High-speed ordered 20 CRH1 trainsets. China Railway High-speed or CHR is the main operator of the regular high-speed trains through the Hefei-Fuzhou High-Speed Rail Line, an important section of the Beijing-Fuzhou railway line.

Bombardier Sifang, founded in 1998, is the joint venture between Bombardier and CSR Sifang Rolling Stock Co., Ltd, to make high speed trains for China and other countries around the world.

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