Modern Rail Cars for Ukrzaliznytsia: A Leap Forward in Passenger Transport

In 2025, Ukrzaliznytsia plans to contract 100 new rail cars, including a pilot batch of 5 next-generation units for future scaling.

This was reported by the company’s press service.

The existing rolling stock is based on technology from the 1970s, featuring coal heating and air conditioning that operates effectively only in motion, along with increased operational costs (usually requiring 2 conductors per car) and is generally outdated.

Ukrzaliznytsia states that the batch of 5 new rail cars with modern management systems will require less maintenance staff, have an operational lifespan nearly 80% longer, and can carry up to 44 passengers in a single compartment.

The new cars will feature a wider body and improved layout, allowing for an increase in the length of sleeping places to 2.2 meters. They will be equipped with pneumatic suspension, ensuring smoother rides and reducing car sway during travel, as reported by the carrier.

Additionally, the cars will be fitted with automatic sliding doors and level with the floor inter-car connections. The control of all systems in the cars will be managed from the train manager's compartment.

According to Ukrzaliznytsia, these cars will transition from coal heating to fully electric systems with advanced individual temperature control in each compartment. The modern system will allow for climate control even during long stops.

The 5 new passenger cars will be compartment-type with the ability to convert into SV-type cars. One car will be inclusive and equipped with an electric lift, ramp for high platforms, and a larger compartment for travelers with disabilities.

In addition to the mentioned benefits, passengers of these cars will enjoy:

• USB and type-c sockets with wireless charging for smartphones;
• a movable table for the upper bunks;
• an extra washbasin in the corridor of the car.

The expected lifespan of these cars is 50 years, thanks to the use of stainless steel for the bodies. This is 20 years more than standard Ukrzaliznytsia cars.

According to Ukrzaliznytsia, the anticipated cost of one car will be 95 million 600 thousand hryvnias, which is less than similar purchases in European railway companies. The cost of servicing one passenger seat in such a car remains almost unchanged throughout the lifespan of the car, considering the number of seats available.

The delivery period for the cars will be 2.5 years from the moment the manufacturer receives the advance payment for production.