Polish national operator PKP Intercity has announced a tender for the purchase of 18 new shunting locomotives to support operations at terminal and stabling stations. The procurement reflects growing demand for manoeuvring capacity as the company continues to expand its passenger services.
The expansion of PKP Intercity’s timetable in recent years has increased passenger volumes and the number of daily train services. This has in turn raised the demand for shunting operations at key stations.
Shunting locomotives play a vital, if often unseen, role in maintaining service reliability. They are used to prepare trains for new journeys, including repositioning coaches, forming trainsets, and ensuring readiness for departure. They can also provide assistance in emergency situations, such as towing trains to the nearest station in the event of traction power failures.
Technical requirements for the new fleet
The tender specifies that the new locomotives must be four-axle units with a maximum operating speed of at least 100 km/h. The maximum axle load will not exceed 20 tonnes, and the locomotives will have a length of no more than 20 metres.
Each vehicle will be fitted with modern diesel engines compliant with Stage V emission standards, ensuring reduced environmental impact.
Delivery of all 18 locomotives is expected within 48 months of contract signing. The first two units must be delivered within 32 months.
Tender process and timeline
Manufacturers are invited to submit bids by 30 September 2025. The tender represents a continuation of PKP Intercity’s modernisation strategy, which has included regular fleet renewals in recent years.
At present, the company operates more than 50 diesel locomotives for shunting. The most recent delivery of ten new manoeuvring locomotives was completed in 2023.
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