First electric train runs between Faro and Vila Real de Santo António

The Algarve Line marked an unprecedented milestone with the first circulation of a train with electric power between the stations of Faro and Vila Real de Santo António, on Tuesday, June 24th.

This was a test run corresponding to a dynamic catenary inspection, carried out as part of the ongoing certification process for the entry into service of the electrification of this section.

The journey was made with a train provided by Comboios de Portugal ( CP ), consisting of a 2240 series electric railcar (UTE2240), and marks the arrival of the first electric train in Vila Real de Santo António.

«This march was successful, constituting another significant step in the implementation of the modernization and electrification plan for the Algarve Line», promoted by Infraestruturas de Portugal ( IP ).

The certification of the connection between Faro and Vila Real de Santo António stations will allow another electrified section of the railway network to enter into operation.

With an extension of approximately 56 kilometres, this connection directly serves the municipalities of Loulé, Faro, Olhão, Tavira, Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António.

The start of operations with electric traction on this route will promote a substantial improvement in the levels of operation, supply and sustainability of rail transport, reinforcing the mobility of the populations of the Algarve region, responding to the challenges of decarbonizing the transport sector.

This project mobilized several partner entities of Infraestruturas de Portugal, such as:

Designer: NRV Consortium – Engineering Consultants, SA, Setec Internacional, SA and Setec Ferroviaire SA; Supervision: COBA – Engineering and Environmental Consultants, SA; Contractor: Sacyr Neopul / Sacyr Somague Consortium;

Certifier: Bureau Veritas.