Four entities have submitted applications to participate in the tender for 20 high-speed electric multiple units for PKP Intercity. The trains are to reach 320 km/h. The order also includes 30-year maintenance and an option for 35 additional units.
The tender was announced in December 2025. The initial deadline for applications was set for end of April 2026, but it was extended to June 25, 2026 at the request of manufacturers. The list of candidates is now known: Alstom, a consortium of Hitachi Rail STS with PESA Bydgoszcz, a Siemens Mobility consortium, and Spanish Patentes Talgo SL.
International giants and a Polish accent
Alstom has already supplied Pendolino trains to PKP Intercity. The Hitachi-PESA consortium combines Japanese Shinkansen technology with a Polish producer. Siemens Mobility, known for ICE trains, is bidding independently. Talgo is a leader in high-speed trains for Spain. All bidders have proven experience in building high-speed rolling stock.
PKP Intercity says that in the coming weeks the applications will be thoroughly verified. Companies that meet formal requirements will be invited to a competitive dialogue to refine the scope of the order, including interior design. Final bids are expected in July 2027, with a decision in October 2027.
Routes for superfast trains
The new trains are planned to run on the „Y” line connecting Warsaw via the Central Communication Port to Katowice and Wrocław. The initial 20 units will enable the launch of services. An option for 35 additional trains would allow frequencies of every 30 minutes on these routes. Extensions to Prague, Leipzig and, in the future, to Gdańsk via the new line 5 (through Płock and Grudziądz) are also being considered.
Technical requirements include a maximum speed of 320 km/h, a train length of around 200 metres, and homologation for Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic and Austria. Trains will feature first and second class compartments, a quiet zone, a bar area, facilities for disabled passengers, family zones, and bicycle racks. Final details will be set during competitive dialogue.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Shutterstock/PTWP
