2004-05-19 - High-tech systems will drive connection across Bohai Bay
May 19, 2004, Beijing, CHINA – ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, said today it won a key project for the ministry of national railways to supply power propulsions systems that form the heart of a new train ferry line between Yantai and Dalian, two cities across Bohai Bay north of Beijing.
Two vessels will be built by Tianjing Xingang Shipyard for Sinorail Bohai Train Ferry Co. Ltd. ABB’s power and automation systems will drive the new train ferry line, which is an important part of China’s coastal railway corridor, and one of five sub-projects connecting the northeast with the Yangtze River Triangle Zone. The entire project involves some 2.3 billion RMB ($277 million) of total investment.
"This contract confirms our belief that the marine and turbocharging business in China is primed for growth," said Veli-Matti Reinikkal, head of ABB’s Automation Technologies business in China. "We pioneered this business and have continued to invest in technological innovations for this important market. The vessels use ABB's advanced propulsion system. It is the first time for China to use this type of vessel with full-power propulsion. Compared with existing vessels, it is more reliable, safer and allows for greater maneuverability. In addition, the system is more efficient and demonstrates superior operational ability, which contributes to on-time scheduling. The system is considered the leading technology in this field.
The first phase of the project is slated for completion in 2006 and will shorten the length of the journey between the two cities by about 1,000 km. The ferry will carry 480 passengers, 50 train carriages, 50 trucks and 25 cars.
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 113,000 people. ABB in China (www.abb.com/cn) has around 6,500 employees in about 23 cities