Chemins de fer de Provence ordered hybrid trains

The French railway company Chemins de fer de Provence (CP) and Stadler are paving the way for more environmentally friendly railway operations between Nice and Digne-les-Bains. The two companies have signed a contract for the delivery of eight two-car 1,000 mm-gauge hybrid multiple units. 

The vehicles are replacing CP's diesel legacy fleet and are equipped with a hybrid drive. The more environmentally friendly trains will be used on the 150 km long narrow-gauge line between Nice and Digne-les-Bains in the urban area of Nice. The HMUs run on battery power, while the hybrid drive comprises battery and a biodiesel-powered engine for use in rural areas. The hybrid drive significantly reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 77 % compared to a diesel vehicle. A charging station for the battery is being built in Nice. The customised trains are 40 m long and can carry around 180 passengers. They are to by built at the Stadler plant in Bussnang and are scheduled to start passenger operation in 2028.

Principal technical data:

Designation: BEMU Bem 4/8
Maximum speed: 100 km/h
Maximum power at wheel: 800 kW
Starting tractive effort: 120 kN
Power supply: Diesel / Batteries

Length: 39,874 mm
Bodyshell width: 2,500 mm
Height: 3,900 mm over TOR
Bogie wheelbase: 2,000 mm for powered bogie and 1,700 mm for non-powered bogie
Wheel diameter (new): 810 mm powered bogie and 705 mm for non-powered bogie
Maximum axle-load: 14 t
Minimum curve radius: 100 m

Seating capacity: 86
Standing capacity: 98
Total capacity: 184