Stadler to Deliver Eight Hybrid Trains for Chemins de fer de Provence’s Greener Future

Stadler to Deliver Eight Hybrid Trains for Chemins de fer de Provence’s Greener Future

(IN BRIEF) Stadler will supply eight hybrid battery-diesel multiple units to Chemins de fer de Provence under a contract with Région Sud, aiming to replace CP’s aging diesel fleet with more sustainable and efficient trains. Running between Nice and Digne-les-Bains, the new trains will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 77%, operate on batteries in urban areas, and use biodiesel in rural stretches. Manufactured in Bussnang, Switzerland, the two-car trains are tailored to CP’s metre-gauge line, offering capacity for 184 passengers. Commissioning is planned for 2028.

(PRESS RELEASE) BUSSNANG, 16-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A major leap towards sustainable rail transport is underway in the South of France as Stadler has signed a landmark contract with the Région Sud and Chemins de fer de Provence (CP) to deliver eight hybrid-powered multiple units. These new trains are set to revolutionise travel along the picturesque 150-kilometre narrow-gauge line between Nice and Digne-les-Bains by significantly reducing carbon emissions and enhancing passenger comfort.

The modern two-car trains will feature a hybrid propulsion system combining battery power with biodiesel engines. Designed specifically for CP’s metre-gauge track, the vehicles will cut CO2 emissions by up to 77% compared to conventional diesel trains. The innovative system will use battery-only operation within the urban area of Nice, while biodiesel will power the trains in rural sections. A dedicated charging station is already planned for installation in Nice.

Stadler will manufacture the 40-metre-long trains at its facility in Bussnang, Switzerland. Each unit can accommodate up to 184 passengers, with seating for 86 and standing room for 98, offering a modern, efficient, and eco-friendly travel solution.

“This order marks a key milestone in our efforts to bring customised, sustainable train technology to the French market,” said Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales at Stadler. “We’re proud to support Région Sud and CP in their commitment to cleaner mobility, and passengers will soon enjoy a more comfortable and environmentally responsible travel experience.”

The new trains, officially designated as BEMU Bem 4/8, are expected to be commissioned in 2028. With a top speed of 100 km/h, robust performance of 800 kW at the wheels, and strong traction for mountainous terrain, they represent a new era for regional rail in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

About Stadler

Stadler has been building trains for over 80 years. The provider of mobility solutions in rail vehicle construction, service and signalling technology has its headquarters in Bussnang in eastern Switzerland. More than 15,000 employees work at 8 production and 6 engineering locations as well as over 80 service locations, including over 5,600 employees in Switzerland.

The company is aware of its social responsibility for sustainable mobility and therefore stands for innovative, sustainable and durable quality products. The product range in the mainline and urban transport sector includes high-speed trains, intercity trains, regional and suburban trains, underground trains, tram-trains and trams. Stadler also manufactures mainline locomotives, shunting locomotives and passenger coaches. Stadler is the world’s leading manufacturer of rack-and-pinion railway vehicles.

Media Contact:

Jürg Grob
Deputy Head of Communication & PR
+41 71 626 19 19
medien@stadlerrail.com

SOURCE: Stadler