UCW Managing Director Gary Steinmetz stated "We are committed in our relationship with both Transnet Freight Rail and Mitsui in supplying these very capable locomotives. UCW is proud to be contributing to the much needed tractive effort required in South Africa not only for iron ore and coal transportation, but also for general freight requirements. It is further testament to the capability that exists locally and UCW is uniquely positioned to provide design and manufacturing support to the Passenger Rail Revitalisation Plans that underpin our country's infrastructure investment needs. These contracts will provide much needed job security for South Africans employed in rail and manufacturing industry, particularly with respect to skills retention which remains a key factor to successfully manufacture rolling stock in South Africa".
UCW provides innovative rail transport solutions to South Africa and selected export markets. Since 1957, 14 000 units comprising of new locomotives, suburban trains and coaches have been designed and manufactured at it's facility situated at Nigel. Refurbishing and upgrading of rolling stock is a significant element of UCW's growth strategy.
UCW is world renowned for the design and manufacture of electric locomotives, diesel electric locomotives, and intercity passenger coaches, electric multiple units, railcars and all-purpose freight wagons. As a leading player in the South African railway industry, UCW is committed to delivering highest quality products and service excellence. The Blue Train and the recent assembly of the Gautrain are listed as the achievements of the company.
UCW has as it's key strengths, design and system integration capability and is currently well advanced in the development of a state of the art passenger coach which is purpose designed for the renewal of South Africa's aging urban fleet.
UCW is a key employer of almost 1300 people, and this additional order will assist with employment retention and promote local component manufacture in South Africa.
On 02nd April 2011, as part of their CSDP initiative, UCW will open a welding school on it's premises to contribute to the training and development of
unskilled people within the Erkhuruleni municipality to equip them with welding skills in support of the drive for sustainable growth and job creation.
Production of the additional 15E's will commence in December 2011 with the first of the 32 units ready for delivery in August 2012. |
