Innovative Passenger Cars Coming to Ukrzaliznytsia
In 2025, "Ukrzaliznytsia" intends to contract 100 new cars, including 5 units of the latest generation – a pilot batch for potential future expansion.
This was announced by the company's press service.
It is noted that the existing rolling stock is based on 1970s technology with coal heating, air conditioning that only works in motion, and high operating costs (typically requiring two conductors per car) and is generally outdated.
Ukrzaliznytsia emphasizes that the batch of 5 new cars with modern control systems will require less servicing personnel, have a service life increased by 80%, and accommodate more passengers – up to 44 in one compartment car.
The new cars will feature a wider body and improved layout, allowing the length of sleeping space to extend to 2.2 meters. They will also be equipped with pneumatic suspension, ensuring additional ride comfort and reducing car swaying during travel, the carrier informs.
Moreover, the cars will have automatic sliding doors and airtight intercar passages level with the floor. The control of all car systems will be done from the train manager's compartment.
According to Ukrzaliznytsia, these cars will transition from coal heating to fully electric heating with advanced individual temperature control in each compartment. The modern system will enable climate control even during long stops.
The 5 new passenger cars will be compartment-type with the ability to transform into SV-type cars. One car will be inclusive, featuring an electric lift, a ramp for high platforms, and an enlarged compartment for travelers with disabilities in wheelchairs.
In addition to the aforementioned advantages, passengers in these cars will receive:
- USB and type-c charging outlets, along with wireless charging for smartphones;
- a movable table for upper berths;
- an additional washbasin in the corridor of the car.
The expected service life of these cars is 50 years due to the use of stainless steel for the bodies. This is 20 years longer than standard Ukrzaliznytsia cars.
According to Ukrzaliznytsia, the anticipated cost of purchasing one car will be 95 million 600 thousand hryvnias, which is less than similar purchases of such cars in European railway companies. The cost of servicing one passenger seat in such a car over its lifespan remains virtually unchanged, taking into account the number of seats in the car.
The delivery time for the cars is 2.5 years from the moment the manufacturer receives the advance payment for production.
