The three Baltic passenger train operators Elron, Vivi, and LTG Link have launched a joint procurement on 18 March for up to 20 regional trains for Rail Baltica’s European standard gauge tracks. The electric multiple units (EMUs) will have a speed of 200 km/h.
Estonia will initially procure five trains with an option for 2 more as part of the procurement, published in the Estonian Public Procurement Register. The other operators are less forward, with Latvia able to order up to five, and Lithuania up to eight trains, with no initial order detailed. The deadline for bids is 4 May.
Latvia retains the right to decide on the purchase of the trains within three years after the first train is put into service by the Estonian operator Elron, reported the Latvian Public broadcaster. In August last year, Elron already made its intention clear to procure 5 trains, saying a tender was expected in Autumn. Instead of launching the procurement alone, with some delay the procurement is now starting in collaboration with the other Baltic operators.
Rail Baltica regional train procurement details
• Number of trains: up to 20 electric multiple-units in total (5 with an option for 2 more in Estonia, up to 5 in Latvia, up to 8 in Lithuania)
• Number of seats: at least 200 seats; standard class arranged in a 2+2 layout, business class in a 1+2 layout
• Length: up to 106 m
• Comfort classes: business class (15-20% of seats, including quiet area) and standard class; family area
• Catering: catering area with coffee machine
• Equipment: charging facilities at every seat; footrests
• Toilets: at least two toilets
• Bicycle spaces: at least 20 bicycle spaces and 4 wheelchair spaces
‘Both trains and tracks must be in place on time’
Marko Kivila, CEO of Rail Baltica’s joint venture RB Rail, stressed that the procurement is a necessary commitment to meet the project’s deadlines. “Both trains and tracks must be in place on time,” he said. “This procurement represents only the first step in keeping the overall project on schedule.”
The new trains will operate on Rail Baltica’s standard-gauge infrastructure, offering faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly travel. According to Lauri Betlem, Chairman of Elron’s Management Board, the joint procurement ensures compatibility across the Baltic network.
Raitis Nešpors, Chairman of Vivi’s Management Board, noted that the new trains will improve service quality and promote sustainable rail development. “Our focus is on enhancing the customer experience across the region,” he said. Kristina Meidė, CEO of LTG Link, highlighted the regional benefits of the procurement. “These modern regional trains will enable us to offer passengers a sustainable and highly competitive alternative to cars,” she stated.
Strategic importance
The procurement launch was held on 18 March, attended by the infrastructure minister of each of the Baltic States. Estonian Minister of Infrastructure Kuldar Leis called Rail Baltica “a project of strategic importance” that strengthens regional unity and boosts economic opportunities. “Rail Baltica creates more opportunities for Estonian companies and strengthens security along the entire eastern border of Europe,” he stated.
Latvian Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Transport Kristaps Zaļais emphasised the long-term benefits of the project. “This is not only an investment in trains,” he said. “It is an investment in connectivity, competitiveness, and in the shared European future of our region.”
Lithuanian Minister of Transport and Communications Juras Taminskas highlighted progress in Lithuania, where 1435mm standard gauge tracks are under construction across a 114-kilometre section. “This is an investment not only in new trains, but also in people – making travel faster and more comfortable, while improving regional security.”
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