The PKP Intercity rolling stock project has used almost 84% of its allocated European funding. The funding comes through Poland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan. In addition, the investment covers 56 electric locomotives and 248 passenger railcars. The work is for long-distance services. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

PKP Intercity fleet project uses 84% of EU funding
PKP Intercity fleet project uses 84% of EU funding

By the end of April 2026, RailwayPro reported funding above 1.81 billion zlotys. That equals about EUR 434.4 million in European funds. The full PNRR grant amounts to 2.162 billion zlotys, approximately EUR 518.88 million. The overall project value is 2.825 billion zlotys, or around EUR 678 million.

The program is designed to renew a substantial part of the PKP Intercity fleet. Also, it aims to raise service standards on long-distance routes in Poland. PKP Intercity links the investment to more comfortable, accessible, and reliable trains for passengers.

PKP Intercity rolling stock project covers locomotives and railcars

According to CEUTP, the financing agreement was signed on October 30, 2024. The project title was “Procurement of 56 zero-emission locomotives and modernization of 248 passenger cars.” The agreement was signed with the European Union’s Transport Projects Center.

PKP Intercity has taken delivery of all 56 ordered Griffin EU160 electric locomotives. In addition, 214 of the 248 passenger railcars have already been modernized. Also, five of the seven investment tasks are complete. This covers both physical and financial implementation.

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The PNRR-backed rolling stock is used across Poland on PKP Intercity long-distance routes. Railway Supply also identified the EU-backed scope as 56 zero-emission locomotives and 248 passenger wagons. For example, the railcar modernization program covers 141A/111A, 152A, Z1B, AB, and COMBO cars. The same scope includes the acquisition of Griffin EU160 electric locomotives.

The upgraded passenger cars include first- and second-class vehicles. They also include compartment and open-saloon layouts. COMBO multifunctional cars are designed for different passenger requirements.

European funds tied to passenger service

PKP Intercity says the high use of European funding shows passenger benefits from financial support.

“This high level of investment progress demonstrates our efficiency in utilizing European funds and our ability to rapidly translate funding into real benefits for passengers. Thanks to funds from the PNRR, we are not only modernizing our rolling stock but are also genuinely accelerating the transformation of long-distance rail in Poland, so that it becomes the first choice for intercity travel,” said Marcin Karasiński, a member of the Board of Directors of PKP Intercity.

According to the operator, the modernization effort is already visible in everyday rail services. It points to improvements in comfort, availability, and service quality for passengers.

Polish railway industry involved in modernization

Separately, the investment includes an industrial dimension. Railcar modernization work is being performed by companies based in different parts of Poland. They include H. Cegielski – Fabryka Pojazdów Szynowych, Pesa Bydgoszcz, Pesa Mińsk Mazowiecki, and PKP Intercity Remtrak.

NEWAG supplies the Griffin EU160 electric locomotives. It is one of Poland’s main rolling stock producers.

Also, PKP Intercity says the contracts support service improvements and the domestic railway sector. It cites employment and technical know-how in Poland.

“European funds from the PNRR serve a dual purpose: they improve the quality of travel and, at the same time, strengthen Polish industry, jobs, and national technological expertise,” added Marcin Karasiński.

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