NATIONAL long-distance passenger operator PKP Intercity has received two bids in its tender to supply and maintain 42 200km/h double-deck EMUs, with an option for 30 more trains.

Alstom has submitted a bid of Zlotys 4.11bn ($US 1.11bn) to supply 42 EMUs, and Zlotys 2.78bn to maintain the new fleet for 30 years. Stadler has bid to supply the trains for Zlotys 3.99bn and Zlotys 3.27bn to maintain them.

PKP Intercity says that the bids are now being reviewed, prior to the selection of a preferred bidder. The company also notes that both Alstom and Stadler have long-established rolling stock production facilities in Poland, located in Chorzów and Siedlce respectively.

Launched in October 2024, the tender is being conducted as a competitive dialogue procedure. According to the Polish Press Agency (PAP), expressions of interest were submitted in December last year by Alstom, Stadler, and a consortium led by Siemens Mobility.

PKP Intercity says that negotiations with manufacturers experienced in producing double-deck rolling stock lasted three months, with the aim of jointly verifying technical solutions and the feasibility of fulfilling the order. Manufacturers were then invited to submit their bids in April.

Expecting to carry 109 million passengers in 2030, almost 60% up on 2023, PKP Intercity says that investment in modern, high-capacity trains is essential. The operator carried a total of 78.5 million passengers in 2024, 15% up on the year before, and expects to carry 88 million in 2025. It says that the double-deck EMUs will be cheaper to purchase and operate than locomotive-hauled rolling stock.

PKP Intercity hopes to have the first new EMUs in service in around three and a half years’ time, deploying them on its busiest services that include the routes from Warsaw to Gdańsk, Łódź, Olsztyn, Wrocław, Kraków, Białystok and Terespol.

Accommodating at least 480 passengers each, the new trains will have extendable seats with individual tables, armrests, footrests, and adjustable lighting. Passenger amenities will include onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, and USB ports, as well as a quiet zone, a children's area, and a dining area equipped with vending machines for food and drink.

PKP Intercity’s first double-deck new EMU fleet will be equipped for ETCS Level 2, and will be approved for operation in the Czech Republic.

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