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Three rolling-stock manufacturers have announced locomotive developments overseas.

Bombardier Transportation and Russia’s Transmashholding said they signed an agreement to establish a new joint venture aimed at developing a new family of locomotives using asynchronous propulsion technology. To be based in Russia, the new company will develop power for the Russian and CIS markets, as well as new markets. Bombardier and Transmashholding each will have an equal share in the company.

The joint venture expands a partnership developed between the two companies last year, when they established two joint ventures to develop and manufacture propulsion equipment.

Meanwhile, Alstom Transport has unveiled a new locomotive platform, the Prima II. Available in a freight or passenger version, the locomotive is based on a modular platform of standardized components, enabling Alstom to meet customers’ specific needs while containing delivery times. The next-generation locomotive also features updated power electronics and is compatible with four different voltages for operation across European borders.

In November 2007, the Moroccan National Railways placed an order for 20 Prima II units.