- Purpose-built hub for advanced traction technology, including converters, motors, and energy storage solutions
- First in Australia to locally produce traction converters, boosting jobs and supply chain resilience
- Grand opening ceremony took place on December 2, 2025
ABB Traction Australia proudly launches its Traction Centre of Excellence in Maryborough, Queensland, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s rail industry and sustainable mobility sector.
The new 5,000 square meter facility, representing a USD 6 million investment, will serve as a strategic hub for manufacturing traction converters, motors, and Mobile e-Power solutions for projects like the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP) in preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as for other regional initiatives. Additionally, ABB has established a Traction Battery Service Centre at the same location to support ongoing projects.
ABB is the first in the industry to start up local production of traction and auxiliary converters in Australia, reinforcing its ‘Local for Local’ strategy and commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional economic growth. This investment strengthens supply chains, creates skilled jobs and fosters local talent – reducing reliance on imports and building a resilient rail manufacturing ecosystem in Queensland.
Core Pillars of the Traction Centre of Excellence:
- Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities: Cutting-edge technology for high-quality, scalable traction converters, auxiliary converters and motors to power modern electric trains, trams, and locomotives. Local production ensures faster delivery, tailored solutions, and supports Australia’s transition to cleaner transport.
- Traction Technology Leadership & Engineering Expertise: Brings ABB’s global traction expertise to build local capabilities in engineering, testing, fault-finding and quality assessment.
- Lifecycle Support and Service: The facility also houses a dedicated Service Centre, for comprehensive maintenance, including repair, predictive maintenance, and overhaul services for traction batteries and converters to maximise uptime and extend equipment life – aligned with decarbonisation goals and local-content requirements.
ABB’s vision for the Maryborough facility represents a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and partnership with Australian transport operators.
“This monumental achievement is a testament to the power of partnership. By uniting ABB’s technology leadership with the expertise of Hyundai Rotem, Downer Rail, and the Queensland Government, we’re shaping the future of rail – delivering smarter, cleaner solutions that will drive sustainable growth and will resonate for generations,” said Dr. Ali Parvizi, Local Division Manager, Traction – Australia/New Zealand.
Premier David Crisafulli cuts the ribbon for the new ABB Traction Centre of Excellence in Maryborough, Queensland, with the local MP John Barounis and ABB Australia Traction Local Division Manager Dr. Ali Parvizi. 
Premier David Crisafulli cuts the celebration cake for the new ABB Traction Centre of Excellence in Maryborough, Queensland, with the local MP John Barounis and ABB Australia Traction Local Division Manager Dr. Ali Parvizi. 
ABB Traction Centre of Excellence – Factory Tour
As Australia continues to invest in rail infrastructure and sustainable transportation, ABB’s Maryborough facility stands ready to deliver the advanced traction technology and support services that power the future of mobility. Combining global traction technology leadership with local expertise, ABB will drive next-generation solutions for a cleaner and more efficient rail network. The grand opening ceremony of the ABB Traction Centre of Excellence held on December 2, 2025, in Maryborough, Queensland.
About ABB
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com
Today, ABB Traction is the world’s largest independent provider of traction systems, employing over 2,200 people across 14 factories in multiple countries — Maryborough being the most recent addition to the global network.
