Poland’s PKP Intercity unveils first NEWAG-built hybrid multiple unit

Polish long-distance operator PKP Intercity has unveiled the production of its first hybrid multiple unit (HMU) from domestic manufacturer NEWAG, marking the formal launch of a 35-train programme intended to expand InterCity services beyond the electrified core network.

The presentation of the new HMU last week at NEWAG’s factory in the southern Polsh town of Nowy Sącz, in the presence of representatives of the Ministry of Infrastructure and the management boards of PKP Intercity and NEWAG. The unit on display forms part of a €800 million gross contract for 35 dual-drive trainsets. The first vehicle is due to be delivered in early 2027, with the full fleet scheduled for handover by the end of the second quarter of 2029.

Dual-mode strategy for network reach

The new trains combine electric and diesel propulsion, allowing for operations on both electrified and non-electrified lines without the need for locomotive changes. For PKP Intercity, this is primarily a network strategy: extending direct long-distance services to towns that currently lack overhead electrification while maintaining through-running onto the mainline network.

While Poland’s core corridors are largely electrified, significant regional and secondary lines, particularly in the east and south-east, remain without overhead wiring, with dual-mode traction a pragmatic alternative to costly infrastructure upgrades. According to the carrier, the introduction of dual-drive rolling stock will at least double the number of long-distance connections for around 70 towns, improving access for approximately 3.5 million residents. The programme will also restore long-distance services to 14 towns, in some cases after an interruption of up to 40 years.

Planned routes include Hajnówka, Zamość, Hrubieszów, Mielec, Zagórze, Krosno, Jasło, Nysa, Jelenia Góra, Gorzów Wielkopolski and Chojnice. Long-distance services are also expected to reach Ostrołęka and Łomża. On selected corridors, the operator anticipates at least four train pairs per day through to mid-2029. PKP Intercity added that the new units will also reduce journey times on a number of axes, including Łomża–Warsaw, Ostrołęka–Gdańsk and Warsaw–Hrubieszów, by removing operational constraints linked to traction changes.

Industrial pipeline centred on Poland

The HMU contract sits within a broader rolling stock investment programme heavily concentrated in domestic production. Polish manufacturers are currently executing orders for PKP Intercity worth more than €4.26 billion. Alongside the 35 hybrid units, the operator has ordered 63 multi-system Griffin EU200 locomotives from NEWAG, with options for a further 32. The combined value of the two NEWAG contracts is close to PLN 5.7bn gross.

In 2025, PKP Intercity’s fleet was being reinforced with 40 new locomotives built in Nowy Sącz, including 38 units capable of 160km/h and two designed for 200km/h operation. The carrier has also taken delivery of 96 modernised coaches from Polish manufacturers H. Cegielski (FPS) and Pesa, as well as from its in-house overhaul subsidiary PKP Intercity Remtrak. Further deliveries are planned in 2026, including 17 additional 200km/h multi-system locomotives and 115 modernised carriages, among them 70 multi-functional COMBO vehicles.

Want a breakdown of the latest trends in Polish rail? Check out RailTech’s expansive interview with rail expert Dr Jakub Majewski, where discuss the CPK project, fresh procurement and ROSCO plans, and why Poland is “the last big rail development market in Europe.”