First Desiro HC Electric Multiple-Unit Arrives in Egypt

The first of 94 four-car Desiro High Capacity electric multiple-units, supplied by Siemens Mobility, arrived at the port of Alexandria in Egypt on September 25 as part of Egypt’s ‘Suez Canal on Rails’ initiative. This marks a major milestone in the initiative to construct three electrified railway lines with a total length of 2000 km. In addition to the 94 Desiro HC regional electric multiple units (EMUs), Siemens Mobility is also to supply 41 eight-car Velaro high-speed trainsets and 41 Vectron electric freight locomotives, each capable of 120 km/h. This project is being undertaken by a consortium comprising Siemens Mobility, Orascom Construction, and The Arab Contractors. Local media has reported that Egypt’s Ministry of Transport has negotiated early delivery of a Desiro HC EMU, with plans to exhibit it at the TransMEA 2023 trade fair, to be held in Cairo in November. This project represents a significant enhancement to the nation's railway infrastructure, offering faster, more efficient transport options for both passengers and freight.