PKP Intercity is set to boost its fleet of high-speed railcars, with the first refurbished vehicles—capable of running at speeds of up to 200 km/h—due to enter service in the coming weeks. The modernisation was carried out by H. Cegielski – Fabryka Pojazdów Szynowych Sp. z o.o. in Poznań.
The updated Z1B and Z1B PRM railcars have been overhauled to improve passenger comfort and enhance travel experience across key routes. The refurbished railcars retain ergonomically designed seats, which have been renewed while maintaining their original comfort levels. They are also equipped with modern amenities including 230V and USB charging sockets, individual lighting, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, acoustic insulation and automatic doors.
Six of the 32 railcars being modernised will include accessible compartments and baby-changing facilities, improving accessibility for families and passengers with reduced mobility.
The vehicles will undergo a scheduled maintenance check 18 months after they enter service. Their 200 km/h capability aligns with PKP Intercity’s growing fleet of high-speed locomotives, supporting the expansion of fast and efficient express services.
Upon acceptance, the upgraded Z1B and Z1B PRM railcars will be deployed flexibly to reinforce services with high passenger demand, ensuring additional capacity and comfort. They are expected to be used on the following routes:
- Warsaw – Łódź
- Łódź – Gdynia – Kołobrzeg
- Warsaw – Zakopane
The refurbishment contract covers 26 second-class Z1B railcars and six PRM-compliant Z1B units designed for passengers using wheelchairs. The modernisation of the 26 Z1B units is co-financed by the European Union through Poland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (KPO).
H. Cegielski FPS is currently producing and modernising rolling stock for PKP Intercity under contracts totalling PLN 4.9 billion (EUR 1.1 billion). One of the largest orders placed with the Poznań-based factory includes the production of 300 brand-new passenger railcars, which are scheduled to begin service in 2026.
In total, PKP Intercity has rolling stock projects under contract with Polish manufacturers and maintenance facilities worth over PLN 16.5 billion (EUR 3.8 billion).
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