SPANISH national operator Renfe and Talgo have reached an agreement to resolve long-standing disputes over the Avril series 106 high-speed train programme, paving the way for the modification of half the fleet with variable-gauge technology and the release of around €200m in outstanding payments and guarantees.
The agreement covers penalties linked to delays in the delivery of the 30 series 106 trains, the acceptance process, contract payments, fleet reconfiguration and revisions to the long-term maintenance arrangements.
Under the deal, Renfe will invest €132m to convert 15 of the 30 Avril trains from 1435mm standard gauge to variable-gauge operation. Once completed, the entire fleet will be equipped with variable-gauge technology, allowing trains to operate on both Spain's standard-gauge high-speed network and 1668mm Iberian-gauge network.
The agreement also updates the maintenance contract with Tarvia, the Renfe-Talgo joint venture responsible for maintaining the fleet. Reflecting the additional work associated with the upgraded bogies and Talgo wheelsets, Renfe will increase maintenance payments by approximately 29%. The operator will also assume responsibility for purchasing the spare parts required for maintenance activities, which will be supplied to Tarvia.
Talgo says the agreement establishes a timetable for the payment of penalties arising from delays to the series 106 project. Payments will not begin until 2032, following the maturity of the company's recently restructured bank debt, and will be spread over the subsequent six years.
Talgo adds that the agreement marks another step in the company’s recovery programme, strengthening its industrial capacity, financial position and long-term stability while allowing the final acceptance of the Avril fleet to proceed.
