Express Service OOD: Bulgarian Expert in Shunting Locomotive Manufacturing

Express Service OOD is a leading Bulgarian manufacturer of shunting locomotives, specializing in the production of battery-powered and diesel models, as well as offering repair and maintenance services for rolling stock. Founded in the city of Ruse, the company has established itself as a reliable partner for industrial enterprises, railway operators, and logistics terminals around the world. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Innovative Battery-Powered Locomotives

In response to the growing demand for environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions, Express Service has developed a line of battery-powered shunting locomotives, including the ES1000 and ES3000 models. These locomotives feature low operating costs, minimal maintenance requirements, and zero harmful emissions.

ES1000

A two-axle locomotive with a curb weight of 25 tons and a nominal power output of 60 kW. It can haul trains weighing up to 1,000 tons at a maximum speed of 8 km/h. The battery capacity is 100 kWh, with a full charging time of 5.5 hours. The battery lifespan exceeds 1,800 cycles. The ES1000 is ideal for shunting operations involving long idle periods and frequent short-distance movements.

ES3000

A three-axle locomotive weighing 48 tons with a nominal power of 90 kW. It can haul loads up to 3,000 tons at a top speed of 10 km/h. It has a 220 kWh battery, 5.5 hours charging time, and over 1,800 battery cycles. The ES3000 is designed for heavy-duty industrial shunting.

Both models can be equipped with remote control systems and connected to the train’s pneumatic brake system. The AC motor controllers are liquid-cooled for extended service life. The control system software can be customized according to client requirements.

Don’t miss…Express Service OOD delivered two ES3000 battery locomotives to the “Nadezhda” rail depot

Reliable Diesel Locomotives

Express Service also produces diesel shunting locomotives in the MDD 3, MDD 4, and MDD 5 series, known for their high power and reliability.

MDD 3

A two-axle locomotive with two synchronized diesel engines, each generating 150 kW. Weight adjustable between 20 and 36 tons, with a top speed ranging from 15 to 60 km/h. Tractive effort up to 1,600 tons. Designed for shunting at industrial sites and ports.

MDD 4

A two-axle locomotive powered by a 403 kW engine compliant with Stage IV Final emission standards. Weighing 42 tons, it reaches 60 km/h with a tractive force of 135 kN. Equipped with a remote control system, it is suitable for heavy-duty shunting.

MDD 5

A four-axle locomotive with two engines totaling 960 kW. Weighs 72 tons with a tractive effort of 240 kN. Compliant with Stage V standards and includes remote control. Suitable for both heavy shunting and light freight operations.

Repair and Maintenance Services

Express Service is the first and only locomotive repair plant in Bulgaria. It offers full-service repair and maintenance for electric locomotives, diesel locomotives, electric multiple units, and diesel railcars. The facility includes specialized departments for diesel engine repair, hydraulic transmissions, electrical machines, brake and pneumatic systems, as well as electronic diagnostics and repairs.

The company maintains a full inventory of spare parts and strives to complete repairs as quickly as possible. In 2023, Express Service repaired over 80 units of rolling stock, including locomotives for Rail Net Cargo. The company is actively involved in the electric and diesel locomotive maintenance market through long-term framework agreements.

International Presence and Recognition

Express Service exports its products worldwide, including to Europe, Asia, and Australia. Clients include private operators and national rail administrations such as SNCF. Battery locomotives from Express Service are operating successfully in Australia, China, India, Paris, and London.

In 2024, a contract was signed with Bulgaria’s Ministry of Transport and Communications for the delivery of 9 ES3000 battery locomotives. One of the first Express Service battery locomotives entered service 16 years ago on Line 4 of the Beijing Metro.

In 2025, a contract was signed with Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia). Thanks to cooperation with international financial institutions, Ukraine will receive 10 modern battery-powered shunting locomotives. These are part of the joint project with the EBRD, “Emergency Support for Ukrainian Railways.” The international tender for the purchase was held on the bank’s platform and announced in summer 2024. The Bulgarian company Express Service OOD won the bid and signed the contract.

Before launching the tender, Ukrzaliznytsia specialists carried out thorough research to define the optimal technical parameters and assess manufacturer capabilities. They also carefully negotiated all aspects of the agreement with the bank. In addition to the locomotives, Ukrzaliznytsia will receive spare parts for routine maintenance during the warranty period. The contract is valued at €6.017 million (approx. $6.5 million USD).

Ukrzaliznytsia previously did not have similar modern equipment. The new shunting locomotives will be used for support operations in locomotive depots and container terminals. The first units will arrive in Q3 2025, with the full batch delivered by the end of 2026.

Quality Control and Safety Standards

Express Service OOD places top priority on product quality and safety. All locomotives undergo rigorous factory testing in Ruse and are certified to meet European and international standards. From design to assembly, only components from leading global suppliers are used.

The company’s quality management system is ISO 9001 certified. Locomotive production is approved by competent bodies such as the Bulgarian National Railway Infrastructure Agency and the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA).

The Future of Sustainable Traction

As environmental regulations tighten and transport shifts toward greener solutions, Express Service continues to invest in battery and hybrid traction technologies.

Express Service OOD is not just a locomotive manufacturer—it’s a hub of railway innovation. Blending Bulgarian engineering heritage with modern solutions, the company delivers efficient and eco-friendly traction systems for shunting and industrial rail operations. From Beijing to Paris, Sofia to Sydney—Express Service locomotives prove their reliability and quality across global markets.

Contacts:

www.lz1866.com
info@lz1866.com
DZS, Ruse 7011, Bulgaria
Tel. +359 88 7412838

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