SNCF Class Z 50000


The SNCF Z 50000 is an electric multiple unit train built by Bombardier Transportation for the French rail operator SNCF, for use under Transilien operations in the Île-de-France.
It is commonly called ‘Francilien’, and sometimes ‘NAT’.

History and design

In 2004, the STIF began the tendering process for approximately 180 new EMUs to replace SNCF's aging stainless-steel single-deck suburban fleet. This stock nicknamed inox comprised EMUs Classes Z 5300, Z 6100, Z 6400 and similar push-pull trainsets known as RIB-RIO. Alstom, Siemens and Bombardier were initial involved in the bidding process.
In 2006 Bombardier obtained a contract from SNCF and STIF for 172 ‘Francilien’ trainsets, with an option for 200 more. The design was for a train operating a typical journey of 30 to length, including numerous stop lasting 30 to 40 seconds, and able to operate from either 1.5 kV DC or 25 kV AC overhead line electrification.
The vehicles use an articulated design using Jakobs bogie intercarriage articulation. of seven or eight carriages; seating layout is formation giving over 400 seats in a seven-car unit, over 500 in an eight-car set. Total occupation exceeds 800 including standing passengers at.
The vehicle's width is, wider than previous trains, which is achieved by having a short standard carriage's length of. The inter-carriage passages are wide, limiting ing.
All interior lights are provided by light-emitting diodes, so power consumption is lessened.

Livery

The Z 50000's appearance refers to three main entities: green leaves evoke Transilien, red doors evoke SNCF, and a long grey banner on each side evokes the Syndicat des transports d'Île-de-France.

Introduction and operations

Bombardier presented the Spacium vehicle at Crespin on 6 February 2009. The first unit delivered for commercial operations to the SNCF was the unit ‘Z 50015/16’, also numbered #8, on 21 October 2009.
The first service operated by a Francilien train was on Line H from Paris Gare du Nord to Luzarches on Sunday 13 December 2009. As of December 2018, 360 trainsets had been ordered, and about 240 were in active service.

Literature

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