Transforming commuter travel

, the power and automation technology group, has signed a $30m contract with

to supply traction transformers for 172 new trains.

The new trains will be used to upgrade commuter travel in the Ile-de-France region around Paris, and ABB will provide two traction transformers for each of the carriages.

The transformers are mounted on trains to ensure power supply to the motors.

‘Our transformer technology is a compact, lightweight and robust solution that complements Bombardier’s expertise in modern rail travel,’ said Bernhard Jucker, head of ABB’s Power Products division.

According to ABB, its compact transformers were chosen in order to support the weight of the new wide-body carriage design and extra seating of the trains.

Bombardier are manufacturing the trains for SNCF (French National Railways) and STIF (Paris Region Transportation Council).