Talgo plans dual-gauge offer for Portugal's high-speed train tender

Spanish train manufacturer Talgo plans to offer Portugal high-speed trains capable of operating on both Iberian and international track gauges. Chief executive Ricardo Chocarro outlined the approach in remarks published on 18 October.

Competition remains at the proposal stage

Talgo and Alstom are the two companies selected to submit offers for CP's high-speed rolling stock procurement. With a base price of €504 million, the tender covers 12 trainsets, an option for eight more and two years of maintenance after the first delivery. Chocarro argues that variable-gauge capability could offer flexibility for future operations on different networks.

Passenger services are not starting yet

Talgo's intention to propose the technology does not mean Portugal has selected it or decided to change track gauge. The procurement timetable envisages signing a contract in the first quarter of 2027 and receiving the first train in the first three months of 2031. Those are project targets, rather than confirmation of a completed purchase or a fixed start date for passenger services.

Sources

https://dinheirovivo.dn.pt/economia/talgo-vai-propor-a-portugal-comboios-de-alta-velocidade-adaptveis-a-duas-bitolas

https://www.rtp.pt/noticias/economia/talgo-vai-propor-a-portugal-comboios-de-alta-velocidade-adaptaveis-a-duas-bitolas_n1772446