Poland Eyes High-Speed Rail: PKP Intercity Plans Major Train Purchase Amid Shifting Alliances

Poland's national railway operator, PKP Intercity, is moving forward with plans to acquire 20 high-speed trains capable of speeds exceeding 320 km/h, with an additional option for 35 units. The company has extended the bidding deadline to June 25, anticipating submissions from various domestic and international manufacturers.

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In the current phase of the procedure, many entities are participating. We are confident that both Polish and foreign companies will submit their applications.

Polish manufacturer Pesa, collaborating with Hitachi, submitted its application on June 15. However, Newag has withdrawn from its planned partnership with Siemens Mobility. A spokesperson for PKP Intercity expressed confidence that multiple bidders will submit proposals, ensuring a competitive tender process.

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In my opinion, CPK should focus on rolling stock with speeds of 200-230 km/h, as it is most needed not only for airport service but also on a national scale.

Meanwhile, a debate is emerging regarding the role of CPK, the planned central transport hub. Piotr Malepszak, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure, believes CPK should prioritize acquiring trains with speeds of 200-230 km/h, which he deems more essential for both airport connections and national service. He argues that PKP Intercity's planned procurement of 55 high-speed trains is sufficient for the "Y" network, CMK line, and international routes, suggesting CPK should not purchase its own fleet of 40 high-speed trains.

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PKP IC will purchase a total of 55 vehicles, which will ensure an operational mileage of 30 million kilometers. This will allow for servicing the 'Y' lines, CMK, and international connections. The IC tender will be sufficient in terms of providing KDP rolling stock, and CPK should not buy 40 such trains.

Industry experts note that Alstom, with its significant production capacity in Poland and experience servicing existing high-speed trains, is also a key contender. The collaboration between Pesa and Hitachi is seen as mutually beneficial, offering Hitachi a stronger European foothold and Pesa access to advanced technology and maintenance expertise. However, past tender experiences, like Pesa's failed 2008 consortium, suggest that final configurations may still evolve before the planned offer submission next year.

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We will see if in the coming days we do not see Newag also together with another foreign manufacturer.