Power electronics will support advanced train systems in Europe and US

Zurich, Switzerland – ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, announced today that it has been awarded orders totaling some $40 million for power electronics traction equipment by Swiss train manufacturer Stadler Rail AG.

ABB’s scope of supply includes integrated traction drive and auxiliary power supply converters together with traction transformers. The equipment will be installed in 80 multiple-unit regional trains of the FLIRT (fast, light, integrated regional train) and GTW articulated rail car series.

“This order clearly demonstrates the powerful combination of ABB’s technically advanced products and transport industry expertise,” said Tom Sjoekvist, head of ABB’s Automation Products division. “It also confirms our position as a reliable, long-term partner and supplier of choice for the makers of modern rail systems.”

The new Stadler trains will be put into service in Switzerland, Germany, France, Hungary and the United States, with deliveries until 2008. The latest ABB orders, booked during the second quarter 2006, continue a highly-productive strategic alliance with Stadler Rail formed in 2002.

Further orders are expected from Stadler for trains in Algeria and Poland.