In 2024, Siemens Mobility unveiled its first Velaro high-speed train for the 2,000-kilometre turnkey rail system in Egypt at the world’s largest rail conference, Innotrans.
The Egypt High Speed project, one of the largest high-speed rail networks in the world, aims to revolutionise rail transportation in Egypt. It will enhance connectivity for its people and the transportation of goods by connecting 60 cities, improving mobility and economic growth across the country. The network will consist of three lines of double track for high-speed, regional and cargo service.
The first line is sometimes called the ‘Suez Canal on rails’ due to its planned cargo operation in parallel to the Suez Canal, an artificial sea-level waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. It is a 660-kilometre line connecting the port cities of Ain Sokhna on the Red Sea to Marsa Matruh and Alexandria on the Mediterranean.
The second line is expected to be 1,100 kilometres long and run between Cairo and Abu Simbel near the Sudan border, linking the mega city to rising economic centres in the south.
The third line aims to cover 225 kilometres and connect the world heritage archaeological sites in Luxor with Hurghada by the Red Sea.
A network of this size and impact is expected to enable millions of journeys a year. Passengers could save up to 50 per cent on their travel time, making it easier for people to commute between urban and rural areas and development of new residential areas along the rail network, providing more housing options for people who work in the cities but prefer to live in less crowded, suburban, or rural areas.
The unveiling at Innotrans was the first of 41 Velaro high-speed trains, which will be accompanied by 94 Desiro high-capacity regional trains and 41 Vectron freight locomotives.
The Velaro trains are designed to reach speeds of up to 250 kilometres per hour, significantly reducing travel times between major cities, and reducing carbon emissions by 70 per cent.
To withstand Egypt’s harsh climatic conditions, the trains feature sealed exterior gaps, advanced filter systems, optimised air flow, and enhanced cooling capacity. Each train will be 200 metres long, with a capacity of 481 passengers, including two wheelchair spaces.
The trains will be equipped with on-board internet, power sockets, and real-time passenger information displays. Overall, these adaptations ensure maximum availability and comfort for passengers. The extensive infrastructure development required for the rail system will not only transform transportation, but also be beneficial for Egypt’s society and economic growth.
A spokesperson from Siemens Mobility said it will provide safe and efficient transportation for all Egyptians, as well as goods, across the country.
“It will establish Egypt as a regional leader for transportation and provide an additional boost to the economy,” the spokesperson said.
“The Egypt High Speed project has placed the country’s people at the heart of its initiatives, with the construction and operation of the entire system expected to directly create up to 40,000 jobs, with an additional 6,700 being initiated by Egyptian suppliers and indirectly through the wider Egyptian economy.
“In a vast country of over 100 million people, Siemens is also providing workforce development opportunities to upskill students and early professionals alike. With 50 per cent of people under 18 years old and the average age of the country’s population only 24 years old, Siemens has developed university bootcamps and a vocational education and training program through the Egypt High Speed project to bring them into the rail industry to increase their capabilities and career opportunities.”
Since the announcement of the Egypt High Speed project in 2022, significant progress has been made on the first phase in Cairo. Once the Egypt High Speed project is completed, the comprehensive stabling facilities and maintenance depots will enhance the efficiency and reliability of Egypt’s rail network, leading to better maintenance and operation of trains, fewer delays and improved service for passengers.
Insights for Australia
The Australian Government and High-Speed Rail Authority are planning for a future high speed rail network to connect major capital cities and regional communities across the east coast.
The Egypt High Speed project can offer several insights in relation to the development and benefits of high-speed rail. Positive impacts for productivity and job creation can be achieved through the local and regional construction required to establish a dedicated high-speed rail network.
The direct and indirect job opportunities in such an undertaking will also increase capability for rail professionals and other industries that will be needed to accommodate the development and maintenance of fast rail.
The technological advancements that the Egypt High Speed project present also extend to the potential technical and environmental benefits both within and outside of the train.
The Velaro Egypt trains are designed to endure high temperatures, sand, and dust with sealed exterior gaps, advanced filter systems, and aerodynamic measures such as newly developed spoilers to prevent damage, ensure smooth operation, and provide a comfortable, efficient travel experience for passengers.
Externally, the high-speed rail system could significantly reduce carbon emissions by 70 per cent, providing a reliable alternative to car travel and truck transportation for goods.
As a multibillion-dollar turnkey project with bilateral support and a focus on global climate protection, the Egypt High Speed project also provides supportive insights into possible funding models, which could provide future inspiration for governments and invested rail industry partners.
By observing Siemens’ progress with one of the largest high-speed rail networks in the world, Australia can look to develop a high-speed rail network that meets the needs of modern travellers, supports economic development, and contributes to environmental sustainability and resilience.
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