Ukrzaliznytsia will receive 10 ES3000 battery locomotives over the next two years, marking the largest contract for Bulgarian manufacturer Express Service OOD in the field of shunting traction equipment. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Ukrzaliznytsia will receive 10 ES3000 battery locomotives over the next two years, marking the largest contract for Bulgarian manufacturer Express Service OOD in the field of shunting traction equipment.

 

The first contacts between the parties took place in the early weeks of the full-scale invasion, as Ukrzaliznytsia sought ways to upgrade its rolling stock.

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Despite the ongoing war, the company’s leadership focused on energy efficiency, modernization, and environmental safety, showing a long-term strategic vision.

Ukrzaliznytsia Shifts Focus: From Diesel to Battery Power

The key driver behind this move was the decision to abandon outdated Soviet diesel locomotives that consume excessive fuel and harm the environment.

Therefore, the company chose to invest in modern, EU-compliant technology and secured financing from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

As a result, Ukrzaliznytsia launched an open tender that attracted bidders from Germany, Poland, and the United States, but ultimately selected the Bulgarian technology.

Ukrzaliznytsia Prepares Technicians for New Equipment

The first two locomotives are expected to arrive in two months, after which training for maintenance personnel will begin.

Energy savings will start from day one of operation, while emissions will immediately be reduced once the machines enter service.

The new locomotives are adapted for the 1520 mm track gauge, which became a key factor in the supplier selection process.

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.

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