The Canadian Press - ONLINE EDITION

Bombardier sued over alleged train defects in Germany

BERLIN - The organization in charge of Berlin's commuter rail service is suing Bombardier Transport (TSX:BBD.B) for $468 million over allegedly defective trains.

Deutsche Bahn� is suing the German-based Bombardier subsidiary in regional court because of what it describes as serious defects.

The rail operator says the wheels and axle-shafts on trains have had to be redesigned and replaced at great financial cost.

Braking systems and traction motors have also been adapted and, in some cases, replaced.

"Over the last few months, DB had attempted in vain to reach an agreement in the form of an out-of-court settlement," said a statement Monday.

"On expiry of the standstill period, the company has now decided to have the matter clarified by the court and is suing Bombardier."

There are separate suits pending against Bombardier in Munich and Berlin regional courts, related to other trains, with Deutsche Bahn seeking another $214 million in compensation.

In response, Bombardier issued a news release disputing the allegation Monday. It said it could even take steps to counter what it described as "defamatory" statements.

It said that the Deutsche Bahn subsidiary, S-Bahn Berlin, had always been responsible for any maintenance work required on those trains.

"Bombardier Transport is not subject to any contractual commitment related to the maintenance and repairs on the 481 series," said the statement.

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

Have Your Say

New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.

The Winnipeg Free Press does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. These terms were revised effective April 16, 2010.

letters

Make text: Larger | Smaller

LATEST VIDEO

Winnipeg Jets Kane, Thorburn, Little and Trouba sum up the season

View more like this

Photo Store Gallery

  • A mother goose has chosen a rather busy spot to nest her eggs- in the parking lot of St Vital Centre on a boulevard. Countless cars buzz by and people have begun to bring it food.-Goose Challenge Day 06 - May 08, 2012   (JOE BRYKSA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS)
  • MIKE.DEAL@FREEPRESS.MB.CA 100615 - Tuesday, June 15th, 2010 The Mane Attraction - Lions are back at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. Xerxes a 3-year-old male African Lion rests in the shade of a tree in his new enclosure at the old Giant Panda building.  MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

View More Gallery Photos

Poll

Would you like to live in a new 42-storey downtown highrise?

View Results

View Related Story

Ads by Google