Alstom Secured Northrail Locomotive Contract
The agreement includes a firm order for shunter locomotives and maintenance services worth 100 million EUR.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Transportation
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Alstom has entered into a framework agreement with Northrail to supply up to 100 TRAXX Shunter locomotives. A firm order for an initial batch of these units, including 10 years of maintenance, is valued at nearly 100 million EUR.
Why it matters
The deal provides Northrail with flexible, multi-propulsion locomotives capable of operating on both electric and diesel power. This order positions the company to modernize its fleet while securing long-term service support for its operations.
The framework agreement covers up to 100 locomotives with a potential total value of 700 million EUR. The initial firm order includes 10 years of maintenance services for units that can reach speeds of 120 km/h.
The players
Alstom
Alstom is a French multinational rolling stock manufacturer that specializes in rail transport equipment.
Northrail
Northrail is a rail vehicle leasing company that is majority-owned by RIVE Private Investment through RTAIF.
InnoTrans
InnoTrans is a prominent international trade fair for transport technology that is held biennially in Berlin.
The details
The TRAXX Shunter locomotives feature a dual-propulsion system using a pantograph or diesel, allowing for the use of liquid diesel, HVO2, or biodiesel. Alstom will design and assemble the units at its centre of excellence located in Belfort.
Timeline
Alstom and Northrail signed the framework agreement on 23 September 2026.
Deliveries for the locomotive order are scheduled to begin at the end of 2029.
Market Landscape
This contract signing follows the pattern of major fleet procurement announcements traditionally unveiled at the InnoTrans 2026 industry exhibition. The agreement signals a broader move toward versatile, multi-fuel rail technology in the European leasing market.
The procurement of these flexible locomotives aims to increase the efficiency of rail freight operations for Northrail's clients. Customers may see improved service reliability as the new fleet begins arriving in late 2029.
The takeaway
This deal underscores a shift toward rail vehicles that can adapt to both electrified lines and non-electrified spurs using sustainable biofuels. Operators should look for increased flexibility in fleet deployment as these dual-mode locomotives enter service.
Further reading
For more on industry developments, see our Transportation section.
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