NATIONAL passenger operators Elron of Estonia, Vivi of Latvia, and LTG Link of Lithuania launched a joint procurement exercise in Tallinn on March 18, seeking to acquire up to 20 25kV ac EMUs to operate regional services on the 1435mm-gauge Rail Baltica line now under construction to connect the three countries with the Polish border.
The tender has been published in the Estonian public procurement register and the deadline for submissions is May 4. The three operators say they are carrying out joint procurement of the new 200km/h fleet in order to ensure compatibility with Rail Baltica infrastructure and seamless cross-border operations. Under a framework agreement, Elron will place a firm order for five trains with an option for two more. Vivi will have an option for up to five, and LTG Link an option for up to eight trains.
Key specifications include a maximum train length of 106m and a minimum of 200 seats per train, with a 2+2 layout in standard class where a family area will be provided. Business class seating will represent 15-20% of total capacity and will be in a 1+2 configuration, including a quiet area.
The new fleet will be expected to operate regional and express services with a journey time of up to 4 hours. Each train will have a catering area with a vending machine for hot drinks. There will be at least two toilets per train, as well as a minimum of 20 bicycle spaces and four wheelchair spaces.
The trains will be equipped with ERTMS Level 2 onboard equipment.
The first two trains are due to be delivered to Estonia for testing in 2029, and the new fleet must be ready to enter service by the end of 2030. According to Elron board member, Märt Ehrenpreis, the estimated budget for acquiring the five trains for Estonia is €60-75m.
“These modern regional trains will enable us not only to ensure maximum efficiency along the Rail Baltica line, but also to offer passengers a sustainable and highly competitive alternative to the private car,” says LTG Link CEO, Kristina Meidė.
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