Romania’s Railcar Revolution: Astra’s EU-Compliant Tech for Railways

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Introduction

Marian Mihail Călin, Technical Director of Astra Vagoane Călători S.A., announced at the Railway Days 2025 conference in Bucharest the unveiling of Romania’s first passenger railcar designed and built entirely to meet the European Union’s Technical Specifications for Interoperability (STI LOC & PASS).

Compliance with European Standards

During his presentation, Călin detailed Astra’s efforts to align its manufacturing processes with European safety, quality, and interoperability standards. He stated, “Our vehicles are produced in Romania at European standards, with strict quality control in every phase of manufacturing,” emphasizing the company’s dedication to integrating domestic expertise with EU-level certification.

Regulatory Approvals

Călin explained that the new railcar fully complies with EU regulations. The Romanian Railway Authority (AFER) will verify conformity, and the Romanian Railway Safety Authority (ASFR) will issue the final authorization in accordance with EU Regulation 3018/545. ASFR will also conduct an independent risk assessment as the Assessment Body (AsBo).

“This certification process guarantees that Astra’s products meet not only national legislation but the complete European interoperability framework,” Călin noted.

Technical Overview and Operational Capabilities

He described the railcar as the first Romanian-designed vehicle capable of seamless operation across EU-compliant networks, positioning the country within the European railway manufacturing sector. The Technical Director highlighted Astra’s experience in tram production, with over 200 vehicles delivered to six Romanian cities over a decade. These projects enhanced Astra’s engineering capabilities, offering expertise that supports its mainline passenger-rail development.

Strategic Vision and Industry Impact

“Our tram success proves that Romanian technology can compete with international manufacturers — and it gave us the experience needed to deliver a fully STI-compliant railcar,” he added.

Călin concluded that Astra’s advancements demonstrate how the national industry can contribute to Europe’s climate and mobility objectives.

“We are proud to be initiators and promoters of genuine Romanian railway technology values,” he said.

“Astra Vagoane Călători is the ideal partner for the modernisation of passenger transport — bringing technology in motion for people, cities, and the future.”

Conclusion

At the Railway Days 2025 conference, Astra Vagoane Călători S.A. announced the development of Romania’s first passenger railcar fully compliant with EU Technical Specifications for Interoperability (STI LOC & PASS). The new railcar, designed and built in Romania, complies with EU regulations and will be certified by the Romanian Railway Authority (AFER) and authorized by the Romanian Railway Safety Authority (ASFR). Astra Vagoane Călători has previously produced over 200 trams for six Romanian cities.

Company Summary

Astra Vagoane Călători S.A.: A Romanian company involved in the design and manufacturing of rolling stock, including passenger railcars and trams.

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