Shunting locomotives for PKP Intercity fleet modernization
03.10.2025
PKP Intercity made an order for 18 sets, so the new shunting locomotives should comply with the contemporary standards, provide operation reliability, as well as enhance the carrier’s environmental performance.
This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Shunting engines and technical specifications
The company outlined the requirements for the future deliveries. The length of the locomotive may not exceed 20 meters in length, the axle load may not exceed 20 tons.
Don’t miss…New York transit funding pause affects tunnel, subway
Also, the machines should be fitted with a diesel engine according to the Stage V level of the environmental standard. It will minimize the emissions as well as bring the fleets of the company into European environmental regulation.
Currently, the company runs over fifty shunting locomotives. Most of them are SM42 production at the Chrzanów-based Fablok plant between 1963 and 1993. Nonetheless, the company acknowledges the fact that old-age rolling stock ceased meeting the requirements of both environmental requirements as well as those of efficiency.
Modernisation plan and shunting engines
The firm has already undergone some process of modernisation. During 2022–2023, PKP Intercity acquired Czech-made EffiShunter 300 locomotives for an order of ten. These proved reliable as well as cost-effective, so the new tender follows the same course of modernisation.
Specialists point out that the demand for contemporary shunting locomotives increases throughout Europe, as operators tend to cut costs but comply with hard EU requirements. PKP Intercity enters the mainstream by doing the same and increasing market share through environmentally friendly investments.
The scheduled orders provide the basis for co-operation with foreign manufacturers. Successful realization of the program will greatly enliven the shunting activities of PKP Intercity as well as cut the reliance on vintage rolling stock.
News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:
What are shunting locomotives?
They are train-building locomotives, wagons movers, and station operation locomotives. Their small size makes them extremely versatile.
When will the new locomotives arrive at PKP Intercity?
Tender announced by the company; delivery schedules will vary based on signed contracts as well as production capacities of the manufacturers.
Are old SM42 locomotives still trainable?
Yes, but the ones in use are getting more costly as they don’t conform to contemporary environmental standards anymore and also incure higher maintenance charges.
Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit
