PKP Intercity has received the first six of 50 Combo multi-purpose railcars, modernised by the Polish company H. Cegielski Rail Vehicle Factory.
The vehicles are designed to provide improved travel conditions for passengers with reduced mobility, seniors, and families traveling with children. They will be gradually introduced into service, including during the Easter holidays.
The investment responds to the steady increase in passenger numbers. PKP Intercity estimates that it will transport approximately 96 million passengers this year, which requires the accelerated expansion and modernization of rolling stock to meet demand during peak periods, such as holidays or the summer season.
Combo Cars, Modernized to a New Standard
The contract to modernize the 50 multifunctional Combo cars was signed in 2024 and aims to transform them to the Combo standard, a concept that integrates solutions tailored to multiple categories of passengers—from people with disabilities and reduced mobility to cyclists and families.
The modernized cars include significant technical improvements, such as new bogies to reduce noise and increase ride comfort. They are also equipped with electrical outlets and USB ports, Wi-Fi access, modern passenger information systems, and dedicated spaces for bicycles. Additionally, vending machines offering drinks and snacks are available.
A major focus is on accessibility. The cars include compartments specially adapted for people with disabilities, access ramps, automatic doors, threshold-free floors, and dedicated safety systems, such as SOS buttons and safety belts. All signage is supplemented with Braille inscriptions and contrasting markings for easy navigation.
For families with children, the Combo cars feature dedicated, themed compartments with adapted amenities, including rest areas and convertible tables, as well as changing tables in the restrooms.
Currently, PKP Intercity already has 115 Combo cars, and by the end of 2026, the fleet will reach 172 units as new modernized vehicles are delivered by both H. Cegielski and PKP Intercity Remtrak.
In 2024, PKP Intercity signed two contracts worth 862.4 million zlotys (201 million EUR) for the modernization and maintenance of 500 railcars, including the 50 Combo railcars.
The program is part of a comprehensive rolling stock investment plan, which also includes the purchase of modern locomotives and the modernization of hundreds of railcars, supported by European funding.
Funding through the PNRR
The Combo car modernization project is valued at 351 million zlotys (EUR 82 million) and is co-financed by European funds through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (KPO).
PKP Intercity is implementing an investment program co-financed by the PNRR, which includes the purchase of 56 modern locomotives and the modernization of 248 passenger railcars, including 50 railcars meeting the Combo standard, manufactured by H. Cegielski Rail Vehicle Factory. The operator has submitted and processed five payment requests to date, with over 1.81 billion zlotys (422 million EUR) already deposited into PKP Intercity’s account, representing nearly 84% of the allocated funding.
Share on:
