Estonian Railways orders more trains from Škoda
The first unit will be completed this year.
Estonian Railways Eesti Liinirongid (Elron) has exercised its option to its contract with Škoda Group and ordered ten more electric units. Škoda Group will thus deliver a total of sixteen units to Estonia, which is the maximum scope of the 2020 contract with a value of EUR 147 million. Škoda announced the news in a press release.
Elron announced the purchase last fall, and the contract has been finalized now. Škoda won the tender against Stadler Rail. In addition to price, Elron evaluated eleven criteria in the tender, including energy costs, maintenance and acceleration. According to Škoda, production has already started at its Ostrava plant. The new units will be used on the newly electrified railway line between Tallinn and Tartu, which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2024.
The units are based on class 460 Panter and designed as dual-system trains for 3 kV and 25 kV 50 Hz power systems. They will be able to operate on newly electrified lines as well as on lines with older overhead lines. Since Estonia has a colder climate than other parts of Europe, the trains must be able to withstand harsher temperature conditions, especially in winter. The units will be 85 meters long and made for a wider track gauge. According to Elron, the electric units will have removable seats to allow for more bicycles during the summer.
Edited and translated by Lucie Trávníčková