The Czech Competition Authority (ÚOHS) has rejected Stadler’s objections to the 86-billion-crown tender for automated trains for Prague Metro’s lines C and D. While the ruling marks a significant milestone, it remains non-final, with an appeal period still in effect.
The tender, launched in April 2024, attracted bids from two major players: the Škoda/Siemens consortium and Alstom. At the heart of the controversy was Stadler’s unsuccessful attempt to have their Glasgow Metro reference project, which features advanced GoA4 automation, recognized in the qualification process.
The ambitious project aims to deliver 69 fully automated trains, along with comprehensive depot and dispatch center equipment for both metro lines. The contract includes a 35-year maintenance agreement for the trains and a 25-year maintenance term for platform screens and transport systems.
Prague’s transport authority (DPP) projects that the automation will boost capacity on the busy Line C by up to 20%, while generating annual operational savings in the hundreds of millions of crowns. The upgrade will also facilitate the timely modernization of the existing 81-71M train fleet currently serving lines A and B.