Italy Authorises ETR 108 EMU for Trenitalia Operations

Italy's national agency for rail and road safety, Ansfisa, granted the Authorisation to Place on the Market (Apom) for the ETR 108 EMU on May 25, allowing Trenitalia to deploy this new fleet on the national rail network. The ETR 108, developed by Alstom, is an eight-car electric multiple unit (EMU) capable of operating at speeds up to 200 km/h, surpassing the 160 km/h maximum speed of the existing ETR 104 EMUs.

The ETR 108 EMUs, measuring 160 meters in length, can accommodate up to 1,076 passengers, with 618 seated. They are equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS), enhancing safety and operational efficiency. This approval is significant for Trenitalia as it prepares to enhance its service offerings, particularly on high-demand routes.

An initial order of 12 regional trains has been placed by the Umbria region, specifically for operation on the Rome - Florence high-speed line. These trains will operate at their maximum speed between Orte and Settebagni, improving travel times and capacity on this critical corridor. Additionally, a separate order for 12 inter-city trains has been funded under Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), which was contingent upon receiving the necessary approvals by June.

To facilitate the higher operational speeds on 3kV dc lines, a new pantograph design, the JRC200 single-arm type, was developed in collaboration between Politecnico di Milano and Trenitalia. Test runs using an ETR 460 Pendolino are scheduled for early 2024, ensuring that the new pantograph meets the required performance standards.

This development not only enhances Trenitalia's fleet but also aligns with Italy's broader goals of modernizing its rail infrastructure and improving service efficiency. The successful approval and deployment of the ETR 108 EMUs reflect a commitment to advancing rail transport capabilities in Italy.