Transnet and Wabtec sign R6.6bn locomotive support deal

Transnet Engineering and Wabtec Corporation have entered into a long-term material and technical support agreement valued at approximately R6.6 billion (roughly US$400 million). The deal, signed at the Koedoespoort Manufacturing Plant in Pretoria, aims to enhance the reliability and availability of Transnet’s Class 43D and 44D locomotive fleets.

These diesel locomotives are essential for South Africa’s freight corridors, particularly in areas where electrification is unreliable. They are used to transport critical commodities, including coal, iron ore, manganese, containers, and general freight. Under the agreement, Wabtec will provide components, technical expertise, and predictive maintenance capabilities, including the ‘Expert-on-Alert’ digital condition-monitoring platform to reduce maintenance turnaround times.

The partnership is part of Transnet’s ‘Reinvent for Growth’ strategy to restore operational performance across its logistics network. The agreement also includes provisions for knowledge transfer and localization initiatives to strengthen domestic rail manufacturing capabilities and industry skills within South Africa.