Think Railways

Lithuanian Railways (AB Lietuvos Gelezinkeliai) plans to purchase new electric locomotives by 2019, considering that electrification works on Vilnius-Minsk railway line are to be completed in 2016 and the line should also reach Radviliskis railway node in 2020. In addition, works to electrify the rail line between Naujoji Vilnia and the Lithuanian border with Belarus have been launched in 2014, at Naujoji Vilnia railway station. It is the first stage of Kena-Klaipeda railway section electrification.

Currently, Lithuanian Railways (AB Lietuvos Gelezinkeliai) is analysing electric locomotives currently available on the market and is conducting meetings with rolling stock manufacturers. Siemens and Skoda have already introduced their products. Siemens also expressed interest in cooperation opportunities and manufacturing electric locomotives in Vilnius Locomotive Repair Depot. Further meetings are planned with manufacturers from France, Poland and other countries.

"We are looking for a standard product that meets our demands and could be used in Lithuanian railway infrastructure after minor adjustments. This would allow us save money not only when purchasing, but when operating and maintaining the new traction units. We are looking not only into technical characteristics but prices as well. Prices of electric locomotives depend on their configuration, the need of additional certification, amount, supply terms and other details. However, the price should not higher than the market price," said Albertas Bajorinas, Deputy Director of the Rolling Stock Department of Freight Transportation Directorate.

Source: www.baltic-course.com