Orlen Kolej, Poland’s second-largest rail freight operator, has signed contracts worth more than PLN 800 million (EUR 189 million) for the delivery of 40 new Polish locomotives. The project is financed through an operating lease provided by PKO Leasing.
The order has been awarded to Pesa and Newag, which will jointly supply the Orlen Group’s rail company with modern locomotives expected to transport 7.2 million tonnes of products a year, covering 5.5 million kilometres.
The contract with Pesa covers the delivery of 20 304E Gama locomotives, which will enter service in 2027.
Newag will supply 20 new six-axle Dragon 2 electric locomotives, together with a package of services for Orlen Kolej. These locomotives will be delivered in 2028.
Both models are advanced units equipped with engines rated at 5.6 MW and 5 MW respectively. They consume around 30% less energy than older locomotive types when measured per tonne of transported freight, providing tangible savings for the company as well as clear environmental benefits.
The locomotives are also fitted with ‘last mile’ modules, enabling operation on non-electrified sections and increasing the company’s operational flexibility and independence. They feature modern safety systems, advanced onboard diagnostics, and solutions that improve crew comfort and safety.
The order responds to the Orlen Group’s growing logistics needs and represents a key element of its rail infrastructure modernisation programme. Under this programme, modern electric locomotives meeting the latest safety standards (GSM-R, ETCS) will gradually replace diesel units. The new rolling stock will be used primarily on the domestic market, giving Orlen Kolej full capability to handle transport operations using its own fleet and significantly reducing operating costs associated with leasing locomotives.
Acquiring Polish locomotives means “working with domestic companies”, which “is integral to every part of our business, not only offshore wind. The purchase will strengthen the capabilities of Orlen Kolej and further support Poland’s economic growth,” said Ireneusz Fąfara, President of the PKN Orlen Management Board.
“The agreement demonstrates that we are investing and will continue to invest. This project is particularly interesting from a local content perspective – it brings together private and state-owned companies. It will result in modern locomotives symbolising the development of the entire sector and more efficient transport in Poland,” said Wojciech Bałczun, the Minister of State Assets, who attended the signing ceremony.
Orlen Kolej specialises in the transport of fuel and petrochemical products, providing comprehensive logistics services in Poland and abroad for both the Orlen Group and external customers. It operates independently in Poland and Germany, and through partnerships delivers freight services across Europe.
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