In a landmark move for North American transit, Alstom has finalized a €920 million ($20.2 billion MXN) contract with Mexico’s Railway Transport Regulatory Agency (ARTF) to spearhead the nation’s passenger rail revival.1 Announced in late December 2025, the agreement covers the supply of 47 state-of-the-art passenger trains as a core component of Mexico’s National Development Plan 2025–2030.2
Branded as the “Trenes del Norte” (Northern Trains), the fleet will connect the country’s industrial and population hubs, targeting the Mexico City–Querétaro–Irapuato and Saltillo–Monterrey–Nuevo Laredo corridors.3
The “Trenes del Norte” Fleet
The order comprises Adessia Stream Diesel Multiple Units (DMU), designed for catenary-free operation to ensure flexibility across Mexico’s existing rail infrastructure.4
| Specification | Details |
| Total Fleet | 47 Units (33 Long-Haul, 14 Short-Haul) |
| Speed & Length | Max 165 km/h; ~100 meters per unit |
| Configuration | Double coupling capable (up to 8 cars) |
| Passenger Capacity | 300 (Long-Haul) / 600 (Short-Haul) |
| Signaling | ERTMS Level 2 standard |
Design: The Gaze of the Puma
Fusing high-tech engineering with cultural identity, the trains feature a striking visual signature inspired by the puma, a symbol of strength in Mexican heritage.5
- Front Signature: Three horizontal lights evoke the whiskers of a feline, paired with aerodynamic lines reflecting the puma’s “intense gaze.”6
- Cultural Accents: The exterior includes a green band inspired by the Codex Boturini and earth-brown doors for intuitive accessibility.7
- Modernity: A deep black ribbon flows along the roof, emphasizing movement and speed.8
Local Impact: “Made in Mexico”
A defining feature of the contract is its commitment to the domestic economy.9 The trains will be manufactured at Alstom’s Ciudad Sahagún plant in Hidalgo, which recently earned the official “Made in Mexico” label.10
- National Content: Over 76% of the train components will be sourced or manufactured locally.11
- Maintenance Hubs: The deal includes five years of comprehensive maintenance and the construction of specialized depots in García and Vaquerado.12
- Tech Integration: Alstom will implement its HealthHub predictive monitoring system, designed to reduce energy use and increase reliability.13
Restoring the Passenger Legacy
This project represents more than a procurement deal; it is a strategic effort to restore intercity passenger rail to regions that have lacked reliable service for decades.14 By linking the central heartland to the U.S. border at Nuevo Laredo, the corridors are expected to alleviate road congestion and stimulate economic activity in high-density industrial zones.15
As of January 5, 2026, Alstom confirmed the contract has been officially booked in its third-quarter results, solidifying its position as the dominant player in Mexico’s transport transformation following its ongoing work on the Tren Maya.
