Alstom Traxx Electric Locomotives for Ukraine: Enhancing Freight Rail Operations

Introduction

Alstom and Ukrainian Railways have finalized a contract for 55 Traxx electric locomotives for freight operations, with the first delivery anticipated in the first quarter of 2027. The EUR 473 million contract, signed on November 17, 2025, also encompasses training and parts delivery.

Contract Details and Financing

The contract between Alstom and Ukrainian Railways, signed on November 17, 2025, is valued at EUR 473 million. Financing will be primarily provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development with EUR 300 million and the World Bank with USD 190 million.

Electric Locomotives Specifications and Capabilities

The locomotives will be tailored to meet Ukraine’s specific infrastructure needs and will be able to run at 120 km/h. These new electric freight locomotives, based on the Alstom Traxx Hauler platform, will be the first European locomotives in Ukraine capable of operating on two types of power supply. The ordered locomotives will have four bogies in a twin Bo-Bo configuration. The dual-voltage locomotives will be adapted to 3kV DC and 25kV AC traction systems. With power ranging from 7.2 to 9.4 MW, the locomotives will reach speeds of 120 km/h. They will utilize Ukrainian-made security systems and radio stations.

Manufacturing and Local Partnerships

The locomotives will be designed and manufactured at Alstom’s Belfort site in France. A preliminary agreement has been reached with Alstom on the possibility of including Ukrainian manufacturers of various components in the supply during the service cycle, including safety systems, communication equipment, brake pads, wheel sets, cable and wire products, cooling systems, etc. A meeting of Alstom, Ukrainian Railways, and a wide range of domestic manufacturers of railway products is planned for the first quarter of 2026 to start cooperation. A modern service center will be deployed in Ukraine on the basis of one of the UZ enterprises to service the locomotives.

Fleet Replacement and Economic Impact

The new Traxx electric freight locomotives will replace the existing fleet with an average of 46 years. According to Ukrainian Railways, currently, the average age of the locomotive fleet is 46 years, wear and tear is over 96%, and in 2-3 years the traction deficit will not allow transporting the required volumes of cargo, significantly narrowing the possibilities of export industries. The new 55 electric locomotives will effectively replace about 80 old analogues currently in operation and will allow reduced operating costs by more than 30%.

Conclusion

Alstom and Ukrainian Railways have signed a contract for 55 Traxx electric locomotives. These electric locomotives are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2029 and will operate on both 3kV DC and 25kV AC traction systems. The locomotives will be manufactured at Alstom’s Belfort site in France. The contract is valued at EUR 473 million.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global leader in the railway industry, providing a wide range of products and services, including rolling stock, signaling, and infrastructure solutions.

Ukrainian Railways: The state-owned railway company of Ukraine, responsible for rail transport operations and infrastructure management.

Technology

Traxx Hauler: A electric locomotive platform developed by Alstom.