Rail supplier news from Stadler, Vossloh, Siemens, Vertex and Tealinc (Jan. 4)

Stadler Rail AG has completed its purchase of Vossloh Rail Vehicles. Headquartered in Valencia, Spain, the latter company was previously one of three business units in Vossloh's transportation division, Vossloh officials said in a press release. Its business activities include the development and manufacturing of diesel-electric locomotives and light-rail vehicles. Both remaining business units in Vossloh's transportation division are expected to be sold off either in full or in parts no later than 2017, or be transferred to a partnership that is no longer controlled by Vossloh.

S-Bahn Berlin GmbH has signed a framework contract with the consortium of Stadler Pankow GmbH and Siemens for the delivery of up to 1,380 rail vehicles, with a firm order placed for the first 106 trains. S-Bahn Berlin plans to use the trains trains on the Ringbahn lines, as well as on the system's southeastern feeder lines. The first 10 vehicles are slated to enter service in 2020.

Vertex Railcar Corp. has obtained two foundational certifications from the Association of American Railroads (AAR). Following official site audits in fall 2015, AAR certified that the Vertex facility in Wilmington, N.C., meets the association's specification for quality assurance and certified the facility as a builder of new rail cars, Vertex officials said in a press release. The quality assurance certification is required for all suppliers to the rail industry. Hiring will continue at Vertex throughout 2016 as the company takes orders and works toward its goal of producing 8,000 cars per year, Vertex officials said.

Tealinc Ltd. is now accepting applications for its 2016 scholarship program, which will award two $1,000 scholarships to the best qualified candidates. The program is open to current employees or dependents of employees within the rail transportation industry. To be considered, candidates must be enrolled or in the process of enrolling in a two-year technical school, or two- or four-year college or trade school by March 31. Additional information can be found on Tealinc's website.