Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation, an unit of Bombardier Inc. (BBD-A.TO, BBD-B.TO), reported signing a variation order to develop and supply important components for the next generation ICx high speed trains for Deutsche Bahn or DB AG under a framework deal with Siemens AG (SI) inked in May 2011. DB AG recently expanded its original order by an additional 170 coaches. The variation order of March 2013 is worth around 336 million euros or $440 million to Bombardier in addition to the original order.
Bombardier said it would supply Siemens with, among other components, all the body shells and trailer bogies of the new ICx fleet. Further, Bombardier would carry out the final assembly of all end coaches and of some intermediate coaches.
The steel carbodies for the new high speed trains are optimised in terms of aerodynamics and weight, enabling significant reductions in energy consumption. They are being developed in the Bombardier factory in Hennigsdorf and are being manufactured in Gorlitz, with the project management taking place at both sites. Hennigsdorf is accountable for the final assembly of all ICx end coaches, while Bombardier would also carry out the final assembly of up to two intermediate coaches per train at this site.
The BOMBARDIER FLEXX Eco trailer bogies, which reduce vehicle weight, energy consumption and noise emission, are being supplied from the Bombardier site in Siegen. The carbody production of the ICx would begin in the summer of 2013, final assembly in spring 2014.
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