Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen To meet the ever-growing demand, NMBS SNCB intended to purchase additional double-deck coaches to expand its fleet. Similar to the NS's mDDM with DD-AR coaches and the SBB CFF FFS's Re 450 with DPZ / DPZplus trains, NMBS SNCB required vehicles that can operate in both locomotive-hauled and multiple-unit formations¹. These coaches have to be compatible with M6 stock and be able to be configured as shortened trains during peak hours or seasons.

On December 18th, 2015, Belgian Railways (NMBS SNCB) signed a framework agreement with a Bombardier and Alstom consortium for the delivery of up to 1362x double-deck coaches designated as "M7". The total value of the order can reach approximately €3,3 billion.

Initially, Bombardier will manufacture in its Bruges (BE) factory 445x coaches to be delivered between 2018 and 2021:
65x driving trailers: BDx 86-96;
290x intermediate coaches: AB 36-96 & B 26-96.

Alstom will manufacture the powered units:
90x motorized driving trailers: Bmx 86-96.
Alstom will also supply ETCS Level 2 for the entire M7 fleet. While most of the construction work will take place in Valenciennes (FR), the company's site in Charleroi (BE) will also be involved in the project.

The M7 coaches will be utilized as electric multiple units (EMUs) as well as in locomotive-hauled configurations in push/pull formations. Non-motorized M7 sets can be combined with NMBS SNCB’s M6 stock, also produced by Alstom and Bombardier.

In comparison to the M6, the interiors of the M7 first and second class coaches will feature a complete redesign, validated by over 200 representatives from various user groups. The driving trailers will include multifunctional spaces for bicycles and will be accessible to wheelchair users.

With the introduction of the M7, NMBS SNCB will add 145000 seats to its fleet. The maximum speed of the M7 coaches will be 200 km/h. These coaches will operate on all Belgian main lines, cross-border services to the Netherlands and Luxembourg, as well as certain high-speed lines.


¹ NMBS SNCB's Class 18 and Class 19, as well as the future Class 17 electric locomotives are to be used for this purpose. / Quellen: https://railcolornews.com/2015/12/19/be-m7-the-new-generation-of-double-deck-trains-for-the-belgian-railways/, https://ferrovia.be/Trains_Materiel_Tracte_Voyageurs_SNCB-NMBS_HLE-HV_M7.php

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen The series prototype was recently presented during a meeting at the Bombardier site, in the presence of attendees including the Minister of Mobility, François Bellot, and the Managing Director of SNCB NMBS, Sophie Dutordoir.

As of September 2018, SNCB NMBS is expected to gradually commence the commissioning of the new M7 double-deck trains. / Quellen: https://focusonbelgium.be/en/business/bombardier-bruges-presents-prototype-m7-double-deck-train

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen The delivery of the first M7 cars to the SNCB NMBS is at least one year delayed. As of late April, the SNCB NMBS board of directors assessed the project's status. The board confirmed that the delay for the initial deliveries currently exceeds one year. Initially, the SNCB NMBS was scheduled to receive the first 4x M7 cars from the BTAT consortium (Bombardier Transport - Alstom Transport) in the third quarter of 2018, followed by 4x more in the fourth quarter and an additional 50x in the first half of 2019.

As of now, while the SNCB NMBS is expected to have 58x new cars, the first 4x are not anticipated before the fourth quarter of 2019, with 48x others expected in the first half of 2020.

The delays are primarily attributed to homologation issues, particularly concerning rolling stock and braking systems. Until these issues are resolved and the industrial process can enter normal production, timelines may continue to extend. So far, Alstom-Bombardier asserts that the initial delay will be compensated during production. The delivery of the last units was originally planned for late 2021 in the initial contract; it is now expected to occur by the end of the first half of 2022 at best.

Two meetings with the manufacturers have already taken place with the federal Minister of Mobility, François Bellot (MR), who remains discreet regarding the stakes, only noting that “the government has invested heavily in this project, which amounts to 1.3 billion euros. The last transport plan, in 2017, increased service by 5%. Ridership increased by nearly four percent in 2017 and 2018, and the upward trend continues in early 2019. Therefore, we need these M7 cars to enhance service and passenger comfort. For the rest, it is the SNCB NMBS that is responsible for its contracts.”

The operational delays prevent the SNCB NMBS from expanding its service, as well as from retiring older, less comfortable rolling stock, thus improving the average reliability of the fleet and, indirectly, punctuality. Theoretically, once the new cars overcome their initial issues, they experience fewer breakdowns and require less intensive maintenance. The SNCB NMBS also aims to reduce the variety of rolling stock in operation to simplify train compositions and service organization. Additionally, this procurement aims to retire equipment that cannot, or can only with difficulty, be upgraded to European safety standards (ETCS), which must be implemented across the fleet by 2023 to comply with the safety master plan. Furthermore, the SNCB NMBS requires various units of the new equipment to initiate necessary training for personnel, including drivers and conductors.

It is not yet determined whether the SNCB NMBS will claim the delay penalties stipulated in the purchase contract. “The timeline committed to by the CEO of Bombardier during April anticipates serial production and delivery of the M7 cars starting in March 2020, and for multiple units and locomotives starting in July 2020. If this timeline is respected, there will be no impact on the Transport Plan,” states the SNCB NMBS.

The Alstom-Bombardier consortium is working diligently to reduce delays, as the order of 445 cars for 1.3 billion is only the first phase of a contract expected to span twelve years with a total value of 3.5 billion. This implies the potential for an additional 917 cars after this initial batch, assuming satisfactory delivery. In a parliamentary response on February 6, Minister Bellot explained that currently, “the SNCB NMBS has not yet concluded a binding contract. Until it does so, there will be no obligation to purchase. In the meantime, the SNCB NMBS is analyzing needs beyond 2022 and conducting a strategic assessment of different types of rolling stock.”

The SNCB NMBS must clarify the potential developments of the project between 2022 and 2025 based on the outcomes of the first phase. / Quellen: https://www.lesoir.be/222867/article/2019-05-08/au-moins-un-de-retard-pour-les-nouvelles-voitures-m7-de-la-sncb

Ein Bmx 86-96 Einheit wird während der Tests in Velim beobachtet:

 

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen One Bmx 86-96 unit is observed during testing in Velim:

/ Quellen: https://www.vladanfoto.cz/clanky-sncb-m7-power-car-velim-cz.html

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen The first double-deck M7-type cars will be integrated into certain trains starting in January 2020, announced Sophie Dutordoir, CEO of SNCB NMBS, during her hearing in the Mobility Commission of the Chamber.

"The manufacturer Bombardier confirmed to me that the production schedule (10x trains per month) will be maintained starting in March 2020" she also stated. / Quellen: https://www.levif.be/belgique/sncb-les-premieres-voitures-a-double-etage-m7-sur-le-rail-des-janvier/

Die ersten Personenwagen treten im Januar 2020 in den kommerziellen Dienst ein. Im Januar 2020 wird SNCB NMBS sie während der Hauptverkehrszeiten auf den Verbindungen Brüssel-Lüttich testen:



Nach dieser Testphase plant SNCB NMBS, sie ab Februar 2020 auf anderen Linien einzusetzen. Bis zum Frühling 2020 wird erwartet, dass vollständige Züge mit M7 Wagen¹ betriebsbereit sind.

Allerdings überzeugen die M7 Wagen nicht alle. Der Nationale Rat für Menschen mit Behinderungen (CSNPH) hat die Einstiegshöhe von Anfang an kritisiert, da sie nicht mit der Höhe der Bahnsteige übereinstimmt. Die meisten Bahnsteige haben Höhen von 55 cm oder 76 cm, während der Einstieg in die M7 Wagen bei 63 cm erfolgt. Das bedeutet, dass Rollstuhlfahrer Unterstützung beim Einsteigen benötigen. „Ein solcher Wagen ist für 30 Jahre ausgelegt. Das bedeutet, dass es Jahrzehnte dauern wird, bis Personen mit eingeschränkter Mobilität unabhängig mit dem Zug reisen können“, kommentiert die Vizepräsidentin des Rates, Ingrid Borré.


¹ Die Lieferung der ersten Steuerwagen steht noch aus, ebenso die motorisierten Einheiten.  

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen The first passenger cars enter commercial service in January 2020. In January 2020, SNCB NMBS will test them on Brussels-Liège connections during peak hours:



After this testing phase, SNCB NMBS plans to use them on other lines from February 2020. By spring 2020, complete trains with M7 cars¹ are expected to be operational.

However, the M7 cars do not convince everyone. The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (CSNPH) has criticized the step height from the beginning, as it does not match the height of the train platforms. Most platforms are at heights of 55 cm or 76 cm, while entry into the M7 cars occurs at 63 cm. This means that wheelchair users will require assistance to board. "Such a car is designed for 30 years. This implies that it will take decades before individuals with reduced mobility can travel by train independently" comments the Council's Vice-President, Ingrid Borré.


¹ The delivery of the first driving trailers remains pending, along with the motorized units. / Quellen: https://ferrovia.be/Trains_Materiel_Tracte_Voyageurs_SNCB-NMBS_HLE-HV_M7.php, https://www.sudinfo.be/id161339/article/2020-01-13/la-sncb-va-mettre-en-service-ses-voitures-m7-critiquees-pour-leur-manque

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen This is a saga that is approaching its conclusion, albeit with more than two years of delay according to the most optimistic forecasts. The SNCB NMBS's double-decker M7 trains will be gradually deployed until March 2023, while they were initially scheduled to be fully operational by December 2021.

In total, out of the 445x M7 cars ordered, 50x will be introduced into service in 2020. 7x cars were already delivered between January and February 2020 and are currently running in the Liège region.

"For reference, the M7 cars underwent extensive testing for several months" states Vincent Bayer, spokesperson for the SNCB NMBS. "Passenger-less driving tests took place in the second half of 2019. Commercial testing then occurred in January and February 2020, during peak hours, with many passengers boarding and alighting throughout the journey. This testing period ensured the detailed functioning of all technical elements, from lighting to air conditioning, as well as door operations and the smooth flow of boarding and alighting at each stop. This was an opportunity to communicate any last details that needed verification or correction to the supplier Bombardier, which is still being finalized due to work interruptions caused by the health crisis between March and May."

While all defects identified during the delivery of the first M7 trains were related to the initial setup—for instance, the door adjustment procedure needed refinement—some technical defects were discovered that must be resolved before the SNCB NMBS approves the start of series production and delivery.

Another disruptive factor is the impact of the health crisis on the production timelines of the M7 trains ordered by the SNCB NMBS. A portion of the activities of the Bombardier-Alstom supplier had to be halted starting March 15th, 2020. Some activities resumed in mid-May, but the production line needs to be reorganized. A return to normal operations is expected by the end of August. "Specifically, these delays will mean that this year, the manufacturers will deliver 48x cars out of the 113x initially planned, and deliveries of the multiple units will begin in December 2020 for part and in March 2021 for the remainder" he clarifies. / Quellen: https://www.lalibre.be/belgique/mobilite/2020/07/14/tres-attendus-par-les-navetteurs-les-nouveaux-trains-tout-confort-de-la-sncb-retardes-a-2023-BO5YYNURVVGHZNR5ILXTQWFIAE/

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen From the initial order of 445x passenger coaches, only a total of 40x cars are expected to be delivered before the end of the year and 150x additional cars are planned for 2021. / Quellen: https://press.sncb.be/la-sncb-commande-200-voitures-m7-a-double-etage-supplementaires

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen In 2020, the consortium of Bombardier Transportation and Alstom receives a new order to supply additional double-deck M7-type multifunctional coaches to SNCB NMBS.

The details of the order are somewhat unclear, as Bombardier specifies 204x M7-type coaches, while SNCB NMBS cites 200x, or more precisely, 198x M7-type coaches:
130x accessible coaches for passengers with reduced mobility: BD 82-96;
68x coaches with a driver's cab and space for bicycles and strollers: BDx 86-91.

This investment represents nearly €450 million.

The order for the accessible coaches aligns with SNCB NMBS's new accessibility policy, which prioritizes enabling passengers with reduced mobility to travel independently. To achieve this, the train and platform heights must match. This was not the case for the initial order of M7 coaches. Consequently, SNCB NMBS has decided to adapt the design of the coaches for future deliveries.

The boarding height of the access doors will be 76 centimeters, which corresponds to the European reference height for new platforms. When the door opens, a sliding platform fills the gap between the platform and the train, allowing passengers with reduced mobility to board and alight independently and safely. These coaches will also feature adapted toilets and an intercom system for wheelchair users.

The Bombardier-Alstom consortium commits to delivering the first coaches in 2024. Each M7 train in operation will include an accessible coach, complemented by a driver's cab coach that can accommodate passengers and bicycles.

Relevant stakeholders, such as Unia, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, and CAWaB, have been consulted on the concept of this new coach. Their expectations have been considered as much as possible.

Georges Gilkinet, Minister of Mobility, states: "I am pleased that SNCB NMBS orders these 130x new coaches accessible to all. It is my ambition for the railways to have more trains, better accessibility at stations for all Belgians, including those in wheelchairs, parents with strollers, and other passengers with reduced mobility, as well as those traveling with bicycles. In the future, I request that every train order meets these accessibility criteria. This aligns fully with the Government's vision of transitioning to more accessible and sustainable mobility."

The 68x coaches with a driver's cab will feature a multifunctional space. These will include foldable seats, providing additional space for bicycles and strollers. / Quellen: https://press.sncb.be/la-sncb-commande-200-voitures-m7-a-double-etage-supplementaires, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/12/21/2148294/0/en/Bombardier-Alstom-consortium-to-provide-204-multifunctional-M7-type-coaches-to-SNCB.html

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen After the first intercity trains with M7-type coaches have already been detected on the Belgian tracks, a motorized vehicle Bmx 86-96 can now also be spotted. Part of the service that runs twice a day between Ghent-Saint-Pierre and Schaerbeek since this month also includes a M7-type car adapted for wheelchair users. In the coming period, it will be tested whether the design of this vehicle meets the necessary requirements.

“Classic M7 cars have been in operation for some time, but since Monday, we are also deploying the new head car and the car for cyclists and wheelchair users,” stated SNCB NMBS spokesperson Dimitri Temmerman to RailTech. “This is why we can operate a complete M7 set for the first time.”

The test vehicle runs twice a day between Ghent-Saint-Pierre and Schaerbeek during peak hours. “The train operates once in the morning and once in the evening” Temmerman specifies. The test aims to determine whether the current design for wheelchair users and cyclists is adequate or if further adjustments are necessary.

Regarding deliveries, the transport company has received approximately 60x units, which are utilized across various destinations. “The new M7 train provides a high level of comfort for passengers” Temmerman states about the new rolling stock. “The cars appear modern and are also more spacious, offering greater legroom and indirect LED lighting, making them not only more comfortable but also more sustainable” he continues.

There are power outlets located near the seats. There is increased storage space beneath the seats for folding bikes or luggage. Each car is equipped with ten information screens, where passengers can view real-time information about their train journey, such as transfers at the next station. / Quellen: https://www.railtech.be/fr/materiel-roulant/2021/09/01/mise-en-service-de-la-premiere-voiture-de-tete-m7/

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Belges (SNCB NMBS) confirms a third call-off for the delivery of 98x additional M7-type double-deck coaches.

After the merger with Bombardier, the manufacturing of M7-type units is divided as follows:
the M7 power car is developed by Alstom at its Valenciennes (FR) center of excellence;
the M7 cars are assembled at Alstom's sites in Bruges (BE) and Valenciennes (FR);
Alstom’s site in Crespin (FR) performs the carbody assembly of the trailer cars;
Alstom's center of excellence in Charleroi (BE) supplies the traction system and the national and European signaling systems;
Alstom's center of excellence in Siegen (DE) supplies the bogie system for the M7 trailer cars, while Le Creusot (FR) supplies the bogie systems for the M7 steering cars. / Quellen: https://railcolornews.com/2021/12/21/be-expert-third-call-off-more-m7-coaches-for-belgian-railways/, https://www.alstom.com/press-releases-news/2021/12/alstom-supply-belgiums-sncb-additional-98-multifunction-m7-train-cars

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen Alstom has paid €80 million in penalties for delays in the delivery of M7 carriages to SNCB NMBS, as stated by Minister of Mobility Georges Gilkinet (Ecolo) this week before the mobility committee.

The initial order of 445x carriages, valued at €1,3 billion, had an expected delivery timeframe from September 2018 to December 2021. However, the deliveries experienced delays. By the end of 2022, only 222x of the 445x carriages had been delivered, according to Minister Gilkinet in response to a question from Deputy Marianne Verhaert (Open VLD) during the mobility committee session. "Penalties are stipulated in the contract in case of delivery delays. Thus, €80 million in fines have already been paid by Alstom" stated Mr. Gilkinet.

The minister added that delivery delays could impact train punctuality and passenger comfort, as they require SNCB NMBS to keep older trainsets in service longer. These older trains are more prone to breakdowns and do not meet "current accessibility and comfort standards", lamented the Ecolo minister.

There is hope that Alstom can resolve the delays in the coming years so that all M7 carriages ordered to date are delivered by the end of 2026.

Alstom acknowledges that it has exceeded the established timelines. "A number of external factors—including COVID-19, delays from certain suppliers, and shortages of specific parts—have severely impacted the delivery schedule", explains Sonia Thibaut, Alstom's communications director. The average delivery rate has "considerably increased" since the beginning of 2022. "Our teams have been mobilized and are working closely with SNCB NMBS to enable a swift integration of this new comfortable rolling stock into their commercial service." / Quellen: https://www.lalibre.be/economie/entreprises-startup/2023/02/08/alstom-a-deja-paye-80-millions-deuros-damendes-pour-des-retards-dans-la-livraison-de-voitures-m7-a-la-sncb-JW2H53HEU5GEDABJFHTVREWAEI/

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen SNCB NMBS confirms that deliveries are running two and a half years late, which forces it to retain its oldest and least reliable rolling stock in service longer than anticipated. Approximately 50% of the M7 fleet is currently in service, and SNCB NMBS states that Alstom has committed to delivering the remainder from the second half of 2024 until the end of 2026. / Quellen: https://www.railjournal.com/fleet/sncb-m7-coach-provides-independent-access-for-all/

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen On February 15th, 2024, Alstom and SNCB NMBS present their new M7 BD car type at the Bruges (BE) factory. Three BD cars are currently undergoing homologation, with entry into service scheduled for the end of 2024. The remaining 127x units are expected to be brought into service by 2026. SNCB NMBS aims to equip every M7 train with at least one car of this type.

Sophie Dutordoir, CEO of SNCB NMBS, states, “Beyond safe and comfortable transport, accessibility is an integral part of our policy. For SNCB NMBS, it is not just about providing assistance. We want all our passengers, including those with reduced mobility, to travel independently from ticket purchase to arrival at their destination. Our sales channels, stations, platforms, and trains will be adapted to achieve this goal. Regarding stations, the Public Service Contract aims to have 180 fully accessible stations by 2032, nearly double the current number over a period of ten years. The oversight during the initial M7 order in 2015 was a missed opportunity. Therefore, in 2018, I proposed to the board to prioritize autonomous accessibility and order 130 fully accessible double-deck cars.”

The autonomously accessible cars feature a boarding height of 76 centimeters, aligning with the standard height of new platforms. A sliding step bridges the gap between the platform and the train before the door opens, allowing passengers with reduced mobility to board and alight safely and independently. Interior modifications ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. Notably, the doors have a wider opening, handrails have been added, and door-opening buttons are positioned lower. The cars are also equipped with accessible toilets and an intercom system enabling wheelchair users to request assistance if needed.

The development of the autonomously accessible car involved the expertise of interest groups such as the National Council of Persons with Disabilities, CAWaB, and Unia. These groups provided recommendations based on consultations and visits to a prototype of the project, with many suggestions integrated into the final design.

As a reminder, SNCB NMBS ordered the 130x autonomously accessible cars from Alstom in December 2020, which committed to delivering these and all other M7 cars starting in the second half of 2024 and by the end of 2026.

Additionally, stations must also be adapted accordingly. From 2023 until 2032, SNCB NMBS plans to invest several billion euros into the renovation of stations and trains, aiming to significantly improve accessibility. Currently, 103 stations are fully accessible. By the end of 2032, this number is expected to reach 176, primarily at stations serving about 70% of embarking passengers.

A station is considered fully accessible if it features a ramp or elevator at each platform. Platforms must also be 76 centimeters high, and the station must include guiding lines for visually impaired individuals and at least one accessible ticket vending machine. New vending machines will be installed starting in 2026, equipped with an assistance button allowing travelers to immediately contact an SNCB NMBS employee who can remotely control the machine.

Alstom currently faces a delay of 2.5 years in deliveries for the initial order. Currently, approximately half of the cars are in service, with the remaining units expected to be delivered by Alstom by the end of 2026. / Quellen: https://press.sncb.be/la-sncb-presente-la-premiere-rame-a-acces-autonome

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen The 445th M7 type car, the last of the first order, will enter service in October 2024, approximately three years behind schedule. The supplier Alstom promises to deliver all other contracted cars by the end of 2026.

The first BD type car (designed for persons with reduced mobility) is also expected to enter service in 2024. Once all cars are in service by the end of 2026, each new M7 train will feature at least one autonomously accessible car and one versatile car capable of accommodating bicycles and strollers (each M7 train will thus be able to carry at least 16 bicycles).

Meanwhile, the deployment of quiet zones on the M7 and M6 trains has also begun. Each train will include one or more cars designated as quiet zones. These areas will be located on the lower level of the car and will be clearly identifiable by stickers placed both inside and outside the train.

M7 cars are primarily used for high-demand trains that need to cross the Brussels North-South Junction. They are already in service on intercity routes between Eupen and Ostend, Blankenberge and Genk, Liège and Quiévrain, Courtrai and Saint-Nicolas, Brussels, Namur and Liège, and between Ghent and Tongres. / Quellen: https://press.sncb.be/le-tout-nouveau-train-a-double-etage-de-la-sncb-franchit-le-cap-des-50000-places-assises

Automatische Übersetzung. Originaltext in: EN - Original anzeigen Delivery status:
The delivery of the M7 Bmx 86-96 motorized units is officially concluded at the end of 2024 with a ceremony at the Valenciennes factory. This is somewhat misleading as unit BMx 76113, which replaces unit BMx 76017 that was irreparably damaged during an accident before delivery, left the factory at a later date. Also, units BMx 76001 - 76006, initially used for test runs and to implement technical improvements and modifications, are yet to be updated to match the final version, with deliveries expected in the coming months.
Two units for persons with reduced mobility, BD 79001 and BD 79002, are delivered and currently under testing. Unit BD 79002 is being tested in a regular train but is completely sealed off from passengers. The main focus is on evaluating the gaps (both in distance and height) between the carriages and raised platforms, particularly in curved sections of the track. When the door to the multipurpose area is operated, a bridge plate extends to close the gap between the train and the platform edge. Once these tests are successfully completed, the homologation process can be finalized. The delivery of additional carriages awaits the outcome of these tests.

Additionally:
A quiet zone is being introduced in M7 trains. This will apply only to mixed first/second class carriages, where the lower level is designated as the silent area. About half of these carriages will be equipped with this feature. The only visible modification is the addition of stickers inside and outside the train to indicate the quiet zone.
Regarding the new deployment of M7 carriages between Brussels and Luxembourg, since neither the motor unit nor the driving trailer car has received homologation for the Luxembourg railway network, the train continues to operate with Class 13 locomotives and M6 Bx 80-72 driving trailer cars. / Quellen: https://www.hetspoor.com/dokumenten/Spoor_gazet2.pdf