At a time of cost-reduction, SNCB continues to improve the quality of the equipment used by its customers. The refurbishment of its fleet is a concrete example.

In the last 15 years, the number of passengers has increased by 60%. SNCB has made significant investments recently in the purchase of new equipment (Desiro railcars and M6 double-deckers) to absorb this passenger growth. Over the next few years the railway operator will continue to invest in rejuvenating and developing the fleet (expanding it by adding M7 double-deckers). When taking into account the decommissioning of the old equipment, the seat capacity will be boosted to 400,000 by 2025-2030.

At the same time SNCB is continuing to refurbish its fleet. Following the Break railcars, M5 double-deckers and Sprinter railcars, SNCB is planning to upgrade the AM75 EMUs over the next five years. The refurbishment of 44 EMUs will cost 147 million euros.

The prototype of the upgraded railcar was presented on 21 May by SNCB’s CEO Jo Cornu at the main workshop in Mechelen. Depending on when the certification process is completed, the first railcar will probably enter into operation in the second half of the year.

In addition to this presentation, Jo Cornu reiterated SNCB’s desire to improve availability. SNCB is thus working to increase availability from the current 80% to 86% within the next five years (expanded fleet with 25,000 seats) through structural measures. This involves revising working procedures, upgrading workshops and maintaining strict contracts with suppliers in terms of operational performance.

(Source: SNCB)