Arriva Netherlands has been successful in its bid to operate passenger transport services in the Province of Gelderland, providing bus transport in the Achterhoek and Rivierenland region and train transport in the Achterhoek region.
Starting in December next year, the contracts could run up until 2042 if the full seven-year extension is applied beyond the initial ten-year term. Arriva already has a presence in the region, having operated buses in Achterhoek since 2010 and in Rivierenland since 2003, with trains added in 2012. The new contracts will see Arriva growing its footprint and operating more routes and services. It will also see the current bus fleet of around 100 buses being replaced by new, electric buses.
The passenger transport authority in the region noted that Arriva’s success was down to its commitment to grow the number of bus services, especially in rural areas and on important high traffic routes. In addition, a programme of refurbishment for the 24-strong train fleet is set to increase comfort levels on board as well as improving efficiency with new cleaner engines installed and a number of technical and cosmetic innovations. From 2025 another nine trains will be added to Arriva’s fleet to serve the region, bringing the total to 33.
Arriva is also able to help the passenger transport authority achieve against its sustainability target, for emission free bus services by 2030, with the introduction of a new electric fleet of around 100 buses, operating alongside its existing Hydrogen fleet of nine, from the start of the contract.
“This is a very exciting win for us and secures our operations in the region for at least another ten years, possibly 17 years. With a long contract we can invest securely and grow our operations, ensuring we make a difference to passengers. We can also support the local transport authorities to achieve their sustainability targets,” said Anne Hettinga, Managing Director of Arriva Netherlands and member of the Arriva Management Board.
In addition to the 33 trains which will be in operation from the start of the new contract in 2025, an additional four train sets will be added in 2028 when Arriva starts operating the RegioExpress service from Arnhem to Doetinchem. This will ensure sufficient capacity is provided on an important route in the region which is experiencing continued growth. These trains will run on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil from the start of the concession, significantly reducing emissions in the region.
All bus and train services will carry the distinctive purple and green livery of the region.
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