POLAND: Regional passenger operator Polregio has signed framework agreements with four manufacturers for the supply of up to 200 electric multiple-units which are intended to offer a step-change in quality on routes serving smaller towns.
The agreements signed on January 25 enable H Cegielski FPS, Pesa Bydgoszcz, Newag and Stadler Polska to bid for firm orders through electronic auctions which will be held over the next three years as the operator secures funding for new rolling stock from EU grants, loans and its own funds.
The intention is that orders can be finalised within weeks, rather than up to a year under traditional tendering models.
Polregio said the large procurement programme worth more than 7bn złoty has been made possible by its stable financial situation, with long-term operating contracts signed with regional authorities over the past two years securing nearly 10bn złoty in revenue until 2030.
The first firm orders are expected this year. Deliveries would run from 2025 to July 2026, with the EMUs to be used in all areas where Polregio has operating contracts.
Two and three-car variants
Orders are planned for up to 60 two-car trains with at least 130 seats, and up to 140 three-car EMUs with at least 210 seats
All would have low floors, a maximum speed of 160 km/h, air-conditioning, wi-fi and dynamic passenger information systems. They will have a wheelchair ramp or lift, and one of the two toilets will be adapted to the needs of people with reduced mobility and include baby changing facilities.
New phase of regional services
President of the Polregio management board Artur Martyniuk said the framework agreements mark a new phase in the development of Poland’s regional railways, with the EMUs to provide a leap in quality and comfort, in particular for the residents of smaller towns.
‘Despite such a large order, we do not buy off-the-shelf vehicles, but trains adapted to serve regional traffic’, he said. ‘This is the result of extensive market consultations with producers for the benefit of both parties. Polregio will receive trains adapted to serve regional traffic, and manufacturers will have secured production capacity for the coming years.’
H Cegielski FPS said the framework would accelerate the renaissance of railways in Poland, with a positive impact on passengers and the environment.
Newag said it would be able to meet the most demanding requirements of Polregio, which has a huge need for new rolling stock.
Pesa said it would be able to offer Regio160 EMUs with hydrogen fuel cells or battery capabilities, while Stadler Polska said its Siedlce factory had the technology, experience and resources to provide vehicles that would serve the operator and passengers for many years.
