China's rail carmaker to supply Malaysia with six trains

China's CNR Changchun Railway Vehicles Co Ltd (CRC) signed an agreement with Malaysia's Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL) in Kuala Lumpur, Nov 25, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's CNR Changchun Railway Vehicles Co Ltd (CRC) signed on Tuesday an agreement with Malaysia's Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL) to supply six sets of four-car trains to the line from Kuala Lumpur city center to Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

With a maximum speed of 160km/h, the train will be able to carry a maximum of 540 passengers on this 57km-length line.

As Kuala Lumpur has a typical tropical climate, CRC will take into full account of the local environment in the design to accommodate the trains to the high temperature and abundant rainfall. Moreover, these trains will be more energy efficient and are expected to be progressively delivered to ERL starting from May, 2016.

CRC Chairman of the Board Wang Run said it is a great honor for the company to have the opportunity to supply vehicles to ERL and contribute to the development of Kuala Lumpur.

ERL Executive Chairman Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh said that they chose to work with CRC for its excellent track record and experience. "They have also proven to us that they have the ability to provide trains that not only met our requirements and specifications, but more importantly the trains that are compatible with our rail system," he said.

Malaysian Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai said that with China's proven capability in designing and manufacturing quality rolling stock, he is positive that CRC will be able to supply the additional trains and meet all ERL's operational requirements.

CRC, founded in 1954, is the leading IRIS and ISO certified passenger rolling stock manufacturer in China. Its diversified product portfolio includes metro trains, light rail vehicles, monorail, passenger coaches, commuter trains and high speed trains with service speed ranging from 80kph up to 380kph.