Hyundai Rotem Secures Record 2.2 Trillion Won Train Order in Morocco

Hyundai Rotem has signed a record 2.2 trillion won deal with Morocco for double-decker trains to improve public transport ahead of the 2030 World Cup. The contract, marking the company’s largest ever, involves local production and will utilize mainly Korean parts. This move is expected to enhance Hyundai Rotem’s presence in Africa while benefiting local businesses and the railway sector.

Hyundai Rotem has secured a landmark train order worth 2.2 trillion won (approximately $1.5 billion) with Morocco, representing the company’s largest single contract to date. The agreement was signed with the Moroccan National Railways Office, covering the supply of double-decker trains intended to enhance the country’s public transportation system in anticipation of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

The new double-decker trains will operate at speeds up to 160 kilometers per hour and primarily connect Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, with other key regions. Production of some trains will occur in Morocco, supporting the local railway industry’s growth. Additionally, maintenance and repair of these trains will be managed by Hyundai Rotem and the Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail), awaiting further negotiations with Moroccan authorities.

This contract is poised to benefit smaller Korean companies, as around 90 percent of the train components will be sourced from South Korea’s small to medium enterprises. Significantly, this deal marks Hyundai Rotem’s inaugural entry into the Moroccan market, attributed to effective collaboration between the public and private sectors, including various governmental agencies that supported its bid against European competitors.

Transport Minister Park Sang-woo previously visited Morocco to enhance awareness of Korea’s railway capabilities. The positive reception of Korail’s proposals, which included technology transfer and training for Moroccan officials, further bolstered Korea’s competitive positioning. This contract enhances Hyundai Rotem’s growing presence in the African market, having previously collaborated on projects in Tunisia, Tanzania, and Egypt.

Other notable contracts by Hyundai Rotem include the 1.4 trillion won project in Australia for the NIF double-decker trains, a 1.3 trillion won supply deal in Queensland, and the 900 billion won agreement for the Los Angeles Metro trains for the 2028 Summer Olympics. Hyundai Rotem underscores that this order exemplifies a successful ‘One Team Korea’ approach, combining efforts from various sectors to showcase Korea’s railway prowess globally.

Hyundai Rotem aims to deliver quality trains for Moroccan citizens and visitors during the upcoming 2030 World Cup, ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Their focus on high standards in manufacturing and service will contribute positively to the local transportation landscape.

In summary, Hyundai Rotem’s historic 2.2 trillion won train order with Morocco marks a significant achievement in expanding its global footprint, especially in Africa. This contract not only strengthens local public transport for the 2030 World Cup but also supports the development of Morocco’s railway industry by integrating Korean technology and manufacturing expertise.

Original Source: www.koreaherald.com