Zurich-based ABB received orders at the end of 2014 worth $40 million from Swiss train manufacturer Stadler Rail for train projects in the USA and Europe.

ABB will supply its newest ‘traction converters’ with integrated onboard power supplies, as well as roof-mounted ‘traction transformers’. The equipment converts electricity from overhead power lines to the voltage levels needed by train motors as well as the auxiliary power systems, including lighting, heating, ventilation, passenger information systems and automatic doors.

Pekka Tiitinen, president of ABB’s Discrete Automation and Motion division, said: “These orders affirm the successful partnership between Stadler Rail and ABB. It underscores the importance of long-term partnerships based on industry expertise and leading innovation.”

In Switzerland, the order includes four new powerful electric mountain trains for the Jungfraubahn, which transports visitors to Europe’s highest rail station at 3,454m above sea level, close to the summits of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. ABB will also supply lightweight, tailor-made compact ‘traction converters’ with integrated onboard power supplies for electric and diesel-electric Stadler trains in California.

Other transportation operations that will receive equipment are: Spain’s Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat Catalunya (FGC); the train line that operates between the cities of Alphen and Gouda in the Netherlands; and the city of Aarhus, Denmark, which will receive 24 light-rail vehicles.