Swiss train manufacturer Stadler Rail has awarded a $55m contract to ABB to supply traction and onboard power equipment.
Under the deal, ABB will deliver traction converters with integrated onboard power supplies, traction transformers and battery chargers for 28 double-decker trains to be delivered to Swiss private railway company BLS.
Traction products convert electricity from overhead power lines to the voltage levels needed by train motors and a host of auxiliary power systems including lighting, heating, ventilation and automatic doors.
ABB will also deliver traction converters and traction transformers to the freight unit of the Swiss Federal Railways, SBB Cargo, for 30 shunting locomotives, which couple carriages and wagons.
The shunters are enhanced hybrid locomotives with a supplementary diesel motor to power the drive chain on lines that are not electrified.
