• 15 Vectron type multisystem locomotives
• Option for five more locomotives
• Equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS)
• Order includes spare parts supply and maintenance for eight years
PKP Cargo, the Polish logistics operator and rail freight carrier, has placed an order with Siemens for the delivery of 15 Vectron type multisystem locomotives. Besides the provision of spare parts and maintenance for a period of eight years, the order includes an option for five more Vectrons.
Twelve of these multisystem Vectrons are to be equipped to operate on the transit corridor running through Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia. The remaining three units are earmarked for service on the transit route through Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland and Slovakia. All the locomotives will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS). Delivery is scheduled to start at the beginning of 2016 and end in summer 2017. The locomotives will be built at the Siemens plant in Munich-Allach.
PKP Cargo Vectron: news
2017
2017-06-14
[HU/PL] Admission tests in Hegyeshalom with PKP Cargo Vectrons
update 2017|06|14
[HU/PL] Admission tests in Hegyeshalom with PKP Cargo Vectrons
Seen in Hegyeshalom on 13.06.2017: PKP Cargo EU46-513, -514 and -515. Photos: Norbert Tilai
PKP Cargo Vectron
2017-05-03
[PL] EU46-513, 514 and 515 arrive in Poland
update 2017|05|03
[PL] EU46-513, 514 and 515 arrive in Poland
On 02.05.2017, the last three Vectron locomotives for PKP Cargo arrived in Poland. The image shows EU46-512 pulling the newbees EU46-515/514/513 in Opalenica. Photo: Jakub Dolniak
[DE] Test run with Siemens 247 905: new Vectron locomotives serve as ballast weight
update 2017|04|24
[DE] Test run with Siemens 247 905: new Vectron locomotives serve as ballast weight
A 'Lastprobefahrt' last week with Siemens 247 905 gave us the opportunity to have a little peak into the future of the Siemens Vectron production. Siemens decided to use a batch of new Vectron electric units to serve as 'ballast weight' during the test runs. All machines are new and did not yet leave the factory gates.
We spotted:
- three new 'stock' locomotives with works number 22163, 22215 and 22251
- new MRCE multisystem locos no. 193 655 and 193 656, so the production of the two batches of these locomotives is well on its way (the designated 193 640-650 and 651-660).
- Alpha Trains 193 556 and 557 are finished. This means that the optional locomotives have been built right away after the first order was completed. First batch is Alpha Trains 193 550-555, four more will come.
- The three Vectron for Polish PKP Cargo that were still missing are ready-to-go too. Unlike the twelve first machines, now in service, the designated 193 513 / 514 / 515 (or 5370 025-027) are additionally equipped for the Netherlands.
Update: 247 905 has been handed over to InfraLeuna as a temporary replacement of 247 907, because Siemens will perform some finishing touches on the latter.
[SK] Approval runs in Hungary with EU46-507/509/510
update 2016|07|14
[SK] Approval runs in Hungary with EU46-507/509/510
A picture from this afternoon: PKP Cargo ES 64 F4-153 hauls EU46-507, 509 and 510. The three Vectron locomotives come back from Hungary, where they did approval runs in order to get homologated for revenue service in that country. We thank Vladislav Bokora for the image from Železná Studienka ('Eisenbrunnen Bratislava').
On 09.06.2016, Vectron locomotives no. EU46-508, 511 and 512 were handed over to PKP Cargo. Both images show the machine in Rzepin. Now twelve machines (501-512) are available to PKP Cargo. Three more will come in the near future, but with a different country specific package. These three units will also be operated in the Netherlands. - Frank Gollhardt / Sven Lehmann
Today, three new Vectron's started their trip to Poland. Multi system locomotives EU46-507, -509 and -510 are the next three machines for PKP Cargo. - Sebastian Winter/Martin Voigt/Martin Lorenz
The picture above shows the future PKP Cargo PKP Cargo EU46-510, completing its maiden run last week. The first six machines are now in service and have become regular guests in Poland and Germany. Nice images are coming in. We share some nice ones with you:
[DE/PL] Two new PKP Cargo Vectrons complete maiden run [updatedx2]
update 2016|04|06
[DE/PL] Two new PKP Cargo Vectrons complete maiden run [updatedx2]
On 05.04.2016, two new Vectron locomotives for PKP cargo completed their maiden run. First one up was 5370 019 / EU46-507, followed by 5370 021 / EU46-509. One day later (edit) EU46-510 was seen too. (Michael Raucheisen)
Last week, PKP Cargo sent it next three EU46 locomotives to Hungary for the neccessary approval tests. Various images of EU46-504/505/506 made by Norbert Tilai.
[PL/HU] PKP Vectrons arrive in Hungary for approval tests
update 2016|02|23
[PL/HU] PKP Vectrons arrive in Hungary for approval tests
The first three PKP Cargo EU46-500 series locomotives have arrived in Hungary for the mandatory approval tests. Norbert Tilai was able to portrait EU46-501/-502/-503 today in Hegyeshalom.
[DE] First time: PKP Cargo Vectron in service in Germany
update 2016|02|13
[DE] First time: PKP Cargo Vectron in service in Germany
Images of the first run of a PKP Cargo Vectron in revenue service in Germany. A steel train to Germany. Images by Frank Gollhardt. Fabias Gross also filmed PKP Cargo Vectron no. EU46-502 tonight with a freight train bound for Bremen. The footage was recorded in Nienburg (Weser).
Today, Siemens is sending the next three Vectron locomotives for PKP Cargo on their way to Poland. EU46-504, -505 and -506 were photographed by Sebastian Winter in Eisenach (DE).
In July the next three locomotives will be outshopped by Siemens. Locomotive 10-12 will arrive in August. For the final three machines, that will have an additional package for the Netherlands, no delivery date has been mentioned so far.
On the same day the machines arrived in Poland, PKP Cargo started test runs with freight trains with the new Vectrons. The title images shows the first run with a freight train in Poland yesterday, with EU46-502 and EU46-501. They pulled the train from Świnoujscie to Dąbrowa Gornicza. (Lucas Piotrowski)
[PL] First 3 PKP Cargo Vectron locomotives on their way to Poland [updatedx3]
update 2016|01|11
[PL] First 3 PKP Cargo Vectron locomotives on their way to Poland [updatedx3]
In the early morning of 10.01.2016, the first three Vectrons for PKP Cargo left Munich heading for Poland. The three machines are numbered EU46-501/502/503 and are all approved for Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Poland and Hungary are also available but as you all know the machines first need individual approval from the national authorities of these countries before revenue services can really start. All three locomotive have 'Abnahmedatum' 14.12.2015. (Michael Raucheisen / Thomas Girstenbrei / Alexander Hdtv / Kevin Sommer / Nicolas Bialy)
In the evening the machines arrived in Berlin. On 11.01.2015 they were taken over by PKP Cargo and continued their journey to Poland. One machine was parked at Rzepin, the other two went on in the direction of Dabrowa Gornicza.
A short video of 501 and 502 pulling a first train (1 min 33):
We have been waiting for it, and today is the day: The Siemens Vectron arrived in the Netherlands. Test locomotive 193 902 crossed the German-Dutch border this morning at Venlo. From there, Railfeeding locomotive no. 18 took the machine from there to Rotterdam-Waalhaven.
Siemens needs to complete the NL-homologation for the Vectron this year. In the second half of 2016, BLS Cargo expects to receive the first machines for long haul services from the Netherlands to Italy vv. PKP Cargo will get machines with DE/AT/HU/PL/CZ/SK/NL package in 2017. (Arnold de Vries / Henk Zwoferink)
Rynek kolejowy brings news and images about the PKP Cargo Vectron locomotives. The pictures show locomotives under construction and the EU46-503 in its final livery. In January 2016 the first three locomotives will be transported to Poland, as they have passed all static and dynamic tests successfully.
[DE/PL] PKP Cargo Vectron in customer livery: the new EU46 series [updated]
update 2015|12|16
[DE/PL] PKP Cargo Vectron in customer livery: the new EU46 series [updated]
Grey and red it is. On 15.12.2015, three Vectron MS locomotives for PKP Cargo had a test run in a new livery for this Polish freight operator. The numbers are omni-present:
[PL] European funds for PKP Cargo Vectron order granted
update 2015|11|12
[PL] European funds for PKP Cargo Vectron order granted
Polish freight operator PKP Cargo is granted 40 million euro by the European Investment Bank (EIB). The money is needed for the acquisition of Vectron multi system freight locomotives. 15 units are on order and an option is taken on 5 more. (nov-ost.info)
Meanwhile is clear that the locomotives will get a red and light grey or silver livery. So we have to say goodbye to the blue and lime.
[DE/PL] 1..2..3.. First Vectron locomotives for PKP Cargo...
update 2015|10|18
[DE/PL] 1..2..3.. First Vectron locomotives for PKP Cargo...
Based on the visuals used by the order announcement, this is what the PKP Cargo Vectrons could look like very soon. Not blue and line, but white and red. Photoshop by Crearail.com
...are making their first runs already. As Siemens can select locomotives from ongoing stock production, machines can be delivered very quickly. Three white stock locomotives are selected for PKP Cargo. They are now designated as 193 501-503, numbers that most likely will change later, as PKP rolling stock is generally numbered in line with the Polish NVR number scheme. (Michael Raucheisen)
[PL] PKP Cargo orders 15 Vectron MS locomotives [updatedx2]
update 2015|09|23
[PL] PKP Cargo orders 15 Vectron MS locomotives [updatedx2]
Siemens 193 820, with additional stickers, served as presentation location today.
• 15 Vectron type multisystem locomotives
• Option for five more locomotives
• Equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS)
• Order includes spare parts supply and maintenance for eight years
PKP Cargo, the Polish logistics operator and rail freight carrier, has placed an order with Siemens for the delivery of 15 Vectron type multisystem locomotives. Besides the provision of spare parts and maintenance for a period of eight years, the order includes an option for five more Vectrons.
Twelve of these multisystem Vectrons are to be equipped to operate on the transit corridor running through Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia. The remaining three units are earmarked for service on the transit route through Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland and Slovakia. All the locomotives will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS). Delivery is scheduled to start at the beginning of 2016 and end in summer 2017. The locomotives will be built at the Siemens plant in Munich-Allach.
Railcolor impression of the Vectron is red/white livery as presented today. Nothing official here. It is also not clear if this livery will be the final one.
“This is our largest investment with regard to rolling stock for a long time. We have taken another solid step toward enhancing the international position of PKP Cargo and strengthening our presence in neighboring countries’ markets. Multisystem locomotives are the modern basis of rolling stock, which will make our international transport offering even more attractive and competitive for Polish and international customers,” says Adam Purwin, President of Management Board of PKP Cargo.
“The tender was specifically prepared to enable participation of as many locomotive manufacturers as possible. We also aimed to achieve fast execution of the contract, as only the well-equipped multisystem loco fleet will help us to implement our international development strategy,” explains Wojciech Derda, Management Board Member of PKP Cargo for Operations.
“With our Vectron locomotive, we were able to completely fulfill the corridor and performance requirements within the specified timeframe. Vectron is currently the only locomotive family in Europe that can do this,” said Jochen Eickholt, CEO of the Siemens Mobility Division.
Railcolor.net: Some more details: Delivery start is scheduled for February 2016. The 15 machines of the initial order cost 75 million euro. They will be delivered in three batches. The option requires an additional 26 million euro.
[EU] PKP Cargo intends to sign locomotive deal during Trako 2015
update 2015|09|13
[EU] PKP Cargo intends to sign locomotive deal during Trako 2015
Yep, it is almost time for Trako 2015. This year's edition of the Polish fair for railway technology will most likely be the stage for PKP Cargo signing a new locomotive deal. The freight operator is close to deciding who is going to built 15(+5 option) new multi system electrics for PKP Cargo's international railfreight network. The machines should pull freight trains to Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Belgium, Hungary and the Netherlands and delivery should start in 2016. (rynek-kolejowy.pl)
PKP Cargo VectronTenders, bids and planned locomotive orders
2015-05-17
[PL] Siemens only candidate for building multi system locomotives for PKP Cargo
update 2015|05|17
[PL] Siemens only candidate for building multi system locomotives for PKP Cargo
Rynek Kolejowy reports: Siemens is the only manufacturer that has made a complete offer for the latest tender for new locomotives for PKP Cargo. Newag offered only four machines for services in Germany and Poland.
PKP Cargo wants to purchase up till 20 new multi system electric locomotives (15+5 option) for freight services. There will be three sub series, with three different country specific packages: PL/DE/AT/CZ/SK/HU (8), PL/DE (4) and PL/DE/NL (3). In August 2016 the first two new machines should arrive.
[EU] PKP Cargo: new tender for 15+5 MS locomotives (replaces previous tender for 10+5)
update 2015|01|12
[EU] PKP Cargo: new tender for 15+5 MS locomotives (replaces previous tender for 10+5)
PKP Cargo has opened a tender to buy 20 multi-system locomotives to serve cross-border rail connections. Five of them are optional. The value of the contract will be approximately PLN 400 million. Poland’s biggest rail carrier will deploy the first new locomotives in H2 2016. They will pull trains to Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary and the Netherlands. After the acquisition of the Czech carrier AWT for close to PLN 400 million, this is yet another step which consolidates the international position of the second largest freight carrier in the European Union.
Originally PKP Cargo considered the acquisition of ten multi-system locomotives with an option of buying another five; however, in view of the electrification of the border crossing with Germany at Węgliniec, it has decided to acquire 15 locomotives with an option of buying another five.
“The acquisition of multi-system locomotives is a milestone for PKP Cargo, especially in the context of the recently announced acquisition of the Czech carrier AWT. As we are expanding our international business, we are investing in new rolling stock. While we initially considered buying ten locomotives, we are now opening a tender for 15 multi-system locomotives with an option of buying another five. This will strengthen PKP Cargo’s capacity of operating international rail connections,” says Wojciech Derda, Board Member in charge of Operations at PKP Cargo.
The first two new locomotives approved for Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Germany and Austria will join PKP Cargo’s rolling stock in August 2016 and the last one, in March 2017. The tender covers full maintenance of the locomotives up to and including the first revision repair (level P4). A revision repair takes place after eight years of operation or a mileage of 1.2 mn km. A potential decision to acquire further locomotives may be made following an analysis of demand for such rolling stock.
PKP Cargo will require the vendor to have experience in the production of electric locomotives as well as type approval in at least one of the countries where the new locomotives will operate. This will ensure the highest quality of contract performance. The contract will have in place mechanisms which protect PKP Cargo against potential downtime of the locomotives, such as technical readiness and reliability indicators. Non-performance of the indicators will entail the payment of damages to PKP Cargo in order to cover the cost of substitution rolling stock.
The company previously owned only one multi-system locomotive (railcolor: EU45-846) and operated the others under operating lease. The solution allowed PKP Cargo to respond promptly and flexibly to changing conditions of transports and to obtain foreign safety certificates. Thanks to the certificates, PKP Cargo can operate transports single-handedly in nine European Union member states. At this time, PKP Cargo’s utilisation of multi-level locomotives has stabilised. Acquisition is the best option under these circumstances.
PKP Cargo’s existing multi-system locomotives
The first multi-system locomotives used by PKP Cargo from 2008 were EU43 (Traxx) machines produced by Bombardier. The carrier owned six such locomotives which operated transports between Poland and Germany. In 2012, the Bombardier locomotives were replaced with EU45 (EuroSprinter) machines produced by Siemens. Currently PKP Cargo uses ten such locomotives. They pull trains with containers, cars, steel, coal, coke, iron ore, chips, and car parts, among others. They run in the three main corridors: Poland-Czech Republic-Austria, Poland-Germany-Netherlands, and Germany-Poland-Czech Republic-Slovakia-Hungary.
PKP Cargo in 13 European countries
PKP Cargo will have access to 13 European markets after closing the acquisition of Advanced World Transport (AWT). Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania will join the group of serviced countries: Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Lithuania. Apart from multi-system locomotives, PKP Cargo uses other types of locomotives for international transports. Diesel locomotives are used in Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Lithuania. PKP Cargo deploys single-system electric locomotives in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
A carrier may enter a foreign market subject to obtaining a safety certificate issued by the local regulator. The procedure is similar in all European Union member states but it is conducted on a case-by-case basis. One of the requirements for a certificate to be issued is to operate locomotives approved in the given country. PKP Cargo has had its ET22 and ET41 electric locomotives and ST44 and SM42 diesel locomotives approved in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, among others.
PKP Cargo trains are driven by Polish train drivers in three countries: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Germany. To drive a train abroad, train drivers are required to pass a language examination and get local train driver certification. PKP Cargo uses the services of third-party drivers in the other countries.
PKP Cargo is about to announce a tender for ten new multi system electric locomotives. These locomotives need to be homologated for Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Belgium, the Netherlands and the Italian border stations. The Polish operator wants to start services with the new machines in 2016-2017. PKP Cargo wants to spend up to 200 mln zł on the new locomotives.
PKP Cargo VectronTenders, bids and planned locomotive orders