The TE36A locomotive was officially approved for Kazakhstan service and the first two cars have already been delivered at Kazakhstan Temir Zholy’s depot in a new chapter in cooperation with Chinese builder CRRC.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

TE36A Locomotive Approved for Operation in Kazakhstan
Photo: KTZ

TE36A Locomotive Strengthens Cooperation Between CRRC and KTZ

CRRC handed over the first TE36A locomotives to KTZ, manufactured in October last year at the Dalian factory of the company. In July 2025, the model passed certification in accordance with the TR CU 001/2011 technique regulations, which paved the way for the opportunity to operate in the Kazakhstan railway network.

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The pilot batch consists of 300 pieces, and the factory is making arrangements for mass shipments. The locomotives shall refit KTZ’s modern fleet and strengthen the standing of the Chinese manufacturers of the carriage stock in Central Asia.

The six-axle freight TE36A locomotive is also founded on the Fuxing platform. Its prime mover is a 12V265C diesel engine with an output of 3.6 MW and a fuel consumption index of 198 g/kWh. In this way, the structure allows for high energy efficiency and stable work in heavy loads.

TE36A Locomotive and Its Role in the Eurasian Rail Market

The TE36A can run at speeds of up to 120 km and can run with a minimum radius curve of 80 meters and thus can be used tolerably well in the more difficult parts of the Kazakh net. Advanced control systems allow the locomotive to lower operating costs and enhance transport reliability.

The CRRC and KTZ in 2023 signed the contract for the delivery of 100 mainline locomotives, however, the sides are already considering the possibility of local production in Kazakhstan. The project will reinforce the nation’s industrial base, provide job creation, and its export development.

Due to TR CU certification, the TE36A qualifies for Russian operations too. It could become competitive with current Russian locomotives due to its low fuel efficiency and high powers. CRRC therefore obtains the possibility for expanding its market penetration and its foothold in Eurasia.

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What is the TE36A locomotive?

The TE36A is a modern six-axle freight locomotive built by CRRC with a 3.6 MW diesel engine, developed on the Fuxing platform and adapted for Kazakhstan’s railway network.

When did the TE36A arrive in Kazakhstan?

The first locomotives were delivered to the KTZ depot in Mangystau in 2025 after successful certification under the TR CU 001/2011 standard.

Can the TE36A locomotive be used in other countries?

Yes, with TR CU certification, the locomotive can operate not only in Kazakhstan but also in Russia and other member states of the Eurasian Economic Union.

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