Tuesday, July 16, 2024 Global transportation leader Alstom has announced the official opening of a new joint venture in Hefei, China . This venture, named Hefei Alstom Rail Transport Equipment Co. Ltd.
(Hatee), marks a significant step forward in Alstom’s commitment to the Chinese rail transit market. Hefei to Become Traction System Hub Hatee will serve as a dedicated center for the design, manufacture, project management, and maintenance of traction systems and components specifically designed for metro trains. The newly developed systems are based on Alstom’s OPTonix technology, known for its high-frequency inverter technology, lightweight design, and ease of maintenance.
Phased Capacity Ramp-Up Production at Hatee will be implemented through a three-phase program with trial production commencing in October 2024. Alstom anticipates reaching full capacity within 8-10 years, allowing Hatee to manufacture, maintain, and retrofit up to 1,500 traction systems annually. Supporting Hefei’s Metro Ambitions: This venture directly aligns with Hefei’s ongoing metro expansion plans.
Hatee is already supplying traction systems for Hefei Metro Line 8, the city’s first fully automated metro line. This 22.5 km line with 12 stations will utilize six-car trains capable of accommodating 2,000 passengers each.
Hefei currently has seven metro lines under construction with a total length of 157 km, aiming to reach a network of 300 km by 2025. Strategic Partnership and Export Potential Hatee is a joint venture between Alstom (holding a 60% stake) and Shanghai Alstom Transport Electrical Equipment (Satee)- one of Alstom’s 11 existing joint ventures in China. This strategic partnership signifies Alstom’s dedication to the Chinese market and its contribution to Hefei’s industrial development.
Notably, Hatee-produced traction equipment is also expected to be exported in the future. Solidifying Alstom’s Position in China Alstom’s China Managing Director, Mr. Ming Geng, emphasizes the market potential and favorable business environment in China, presenting exciting growth opportunities for Alstom.
Hatee’s establishment further strengthens Alstom’s position in China, not only as a leading supplier of rolling stock and traction systems but also as a major contributor to the country’s high-speed network signaling systems. This new venture positions Alstom to play a pivotal role in the development of Hefei’s rail transit industry and contribute to China’s overall rail infrastructure advancements. image courtesy: ALSTOM SA 2012.
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