Spain backs Ukraine project on variable-gauge bogies

Variable-gauge bogies are at the centre of Spain’s €5.48 million support for Ukraine. According to Ukrainian Railways, the funding will back the development of “a new innovative bogie for freight wagons with an automatic change of gauge from 1520mm to 1435mm”.

The money will be provided by the Spanish government through a non-repayable grant agreement. Meanwhile, expertise will come from Adif and Tria. Also, Ukrinform identifies Adif as Spain’s infrastructure manager. Spain made €200 million available for Ukraine at the end of last year. In addition, Ukrainian Railways said this is the first project funded from those €200 million.

Why variable-gauge bogies matter for Ukraine?

As outlined by Railway Supply, the technology allows bogies to change width automatically. Meanwhile, this happens when the rail gauge changes. In addition, Ukraine uses the same 1520mm gauge as Russia. Also, most of Europe operates on the 1435mm standard gauge.

Don’t miss…Evacuation order after train derailment near Warroad

The idea of implementing standard gauge was already under discussion. Still, the war increased the need for practical solutions. At the same time, new infrastructure would be costly. Also, variable-gauge bogies have become more attractive for the rail freight sector.

Spain’s experience and cooperation with Ukraine

Spain also works with a different rail gauge than most of Europe. For example, it uses 1600mm. In addition, it has been developing variable-gauge bogies since at least 2014. Also, that experience could be useful for Ukraine’s rail freight sector. Separately, the sector needs new connections towards the West.

Possible cooperation was first explored in the summer of 2023, as reported by RailFreight. Later, they signed a memorandum of understanding in March 2024.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: