Securing New Zealand’s first battery-electric fleet, Alstom replaces diesel trains with cleaner, faster and more passenger-friendly services.
Alstom has secured a $1.06 billion contract to supply 18 battery-electric multiple unit (BEMU) commuter trains to New Zealand, marking the country’s first fleet of battery-powered trains. The deal, awarded by the Greater Wellington Regional Council, also includes a 35-year FlexCare Perform maintenance service.
The new Adessia Stream B trains will operate on the Wairarapa and Manawatu lines, replacing diesel locomotive-hauled trains due for retirement in 2028 and 2029. Each train will accommodate up to 475 passengers, travel at speeds of up to 120kph, and provide emission-free service through non-electrified sections such as the 9km Remutaka Tunnel.
Production will take place at Alstom’s Savli facility in India, while a new maintenance facility will be built in Masterton. The site will feature advanced systems for fleet upkeep and battery servicing. Alstom will also introduce HealthHub condition-based monitoring, predictive maintenance technology, and a connected driver advisory system to New Zealand rail operations.
The trains, designed on Alstom’s Adessia platform, will be tailored for Wellington’s network. Passenger-friendly features include wheelchair spaces, bike storage, luggage racks, toilets, vending machines, and water dispensers. The livery, named Tūhono (“to connect” or “to unite”), will showcase Māori cultural design elements created with Indigenous Design and Innovation.
The contract adds to Alstom’s expanding BEMU portfolio, following recent orders for 11 trains in Germany and 31 in Ireland.
