Siemens Mobility has secured a contract valued at $281.7 million to supply three AP220 trainsets for the California High Speed Rail project’s Initial Operating Section between Bakersfield and Merced. The deal was announced on October 23, 2026, alongside a $284.1 million maintenance and full service agreement covering 2030 to 2040, plus $206.3 million in provisions for testing, cost escalation, foreign exchange, and taxes, according to Railway Gazette International.
Delivery Timeline and Project Route
The trainsets are scheduled for delivery starting at the end of 2029, with testing set to commence in spring 2030. The Initial Operating Section spans 275 kilometres between Bakersfield and Merced, with
commercial service expected to begin in 2033-34. The contract includes options to order up to 19 additional trainsets at $62.1 million each. Maintenance payments will be based on monthly metrics tied to availability and reliability, with options to extend services in five-year increments up to 30 years total.
Technical Specifications of AP220 Trainsets
The AP220 trainsets, part of Siemens Mobility’s Velaro Novo family, are designed for operation at speeds up to 354 km/h (220 mph). These aluminum-bodied seven-car trainsets stretch 202 metres in length and feature distributed power totaling 8.2 MW. Each unit offers at least 450 reclining seats arranged in a 2+2 configuration with
a 990 mm pitch, accompanied by power outlets and USB-C ports at every seat. They comply with U.S. federal Tier III crash and fire safety standards for trains operating above 200 km/h and can accommodate altitudes up to 1,400 metres. The trainsets will be built in Germany following the California High Speed Rail Authority’s decision to waive federal Buy American requirements in August 2026.
Design and Operational Features
Siemens Mobility is implementing cost control by using standard train configurations, limiting customization to exterior livery, colours, and selected materials. The trainsets include batteries that provide emergency propulsion and support air-conditioning during overhead power failures. Each
seven-car trainset features an accessible toilet in every coach. Interiors are designed to accommodate future adjustments such as alternate seating layouts, family and bicycle areas, and food service options. The trainsets are capable of operating in pairs to meet service demands.
Related High Speed Rail Projects
Siemens Mobility was previously awarded a contract in May 2024 to supply and maintain ten seven-car AP220 trainsets for the Brightline West project, a 351 km high-speed rail line connecting Las Vegas with Rancho Cucamonga, east of Los Angeles. This existing contract highlights Siemens Mobility’s ongoing role in North American high-speed rail development.
