PKP Intercity launches tender for high-speed trains

Polish operator is seeking 20 250km/h EMUs initially with the contract to include options for up to 35 additional trains.

PKP Intercity already operates a fleet of 20 Alstom ED250 250km/h trains.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

POLISH long-distance operator PKP Intercity (PKP IC) has launched a tender for 20 high-speed trains with a maximum operating speed of 250km/h.

The tender covers both the supply of the trains and a long-term maintenance agreement and the planning and construction of a dedicated maintenance facility.

The contract will include an option for up to 35 further EMUs, subject to PKP IC’s future rolling stock requirements. Any additional trains ordered under the option would be supplied under the same commercial terms and pricing as the initial order and would also be covered by the maintenance contract.

To qualify, bidders must have delivered at least five dual-system EMUs capable of operating at speeds of at least 250km/h within the past seven years, calculated from the deadline for submission of bids. This experience must include certification under the TSI for locomotives and passenger rolling stock in at least one European Union (EU) member state, or authorisation to place rolling stock into service under the national requirements of a country within the European Economic Area, Switzerland or Britain.

The trains must be equipped with ERTMS, including ETCS Level 2. The overall contract term will run for 470 months from the date of signing. The first two trains must be delivered within 60 months of contract award, with delivery of at least 20 sets completed within 84 months. If the full option is exercised, the final train must be delivered within 110 months of contract signing.

The maintenance contract will apply to each train for a period of 30 years, commencing upon acceptance by PKP IC at the time of delivery and expiring 30 years after the official delivery date of each individual train.

Price is the sole award criterion. The tender will be conducted in several consecutive phases, during which bidders may be eliminated. Submissions must be received by PKP IC by April 29 2026. The operator aims to conclude the tender and select a train manufacturer by the end of 2026.

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