Helsinki M400 metro train procurement moves to negotiation phase

The procurement process for new M400 metro trains for Helsinki and Espoo is proceeding according to schedule. Following the deadline for preliminary bids on August 10, two companies have submitted offers: CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles, S. A.) and the Stadler Group (Stadler Rail Valencia, S. A. U. and Stadler Service AG).

Previously, four suppliers had met the minimum requirements to enter negotiations. However, Skoda Transportation has withdrawn from the tender, and Alstom Transport Finland Oy did not submit a preliminary bid. Antti Nousiainen, head of the asset management unit at Kaupunkiliikenne Oy, stated that while they had hoped for more participants, they are satisfied with the two bids received, noting that two offers is a good amount for a procurement of this scale.

The project focuses on improving passenger experience, increasing capacity, and streamlining station operations. The first round of negotiations is expected to begin this autumn. A final decision on the supplier is scheduled for autumn 2027, with the new trains expected to enter service between 2033 and 2034.