Competition authorities approve Alstom takeover of Bombardier

Alstom’s purchase of Bombardier Transportation has been approved by the European Commission and is set to take place in the first half of 2021.

The deal is conditional upon a transfer of Bombardier Transportation’s contribution to the V300 Zefiro very high-speed train, and an offer of Intellectual Property (IP) licence to Hitachi for the train co-developed with the Japanese manufacturer for future VHST tenders in the UK.

This does not affect the current £2.75 billion HS2 tender for 54 classic compatible trains, for which both Alstom and Bombardier/Hitachi are shortlisted.

Bombardier spokesman Will Tanner told RAIL that the decision will have no current impact on the future of the company’s Derby Litchurch Lane facility.

The EC revealed its decision on July 31. Bombardier Transportation Chairman Daniel Desjardins said: “Today’s decision marks a positive step for the growth opportunities of the European rail sector, which is a world leader thanks to strong domestic competition and commitment to the next generation of green and digital mobility solutions.”

• For the FULL story, read RAIL 911, published on August 12, and available digitally from August 8.