The launch event at RCC's facility at Prakovce, Slovakia, was attended by the Slovakian prime minister Mr Robert Fico and Russian Railways (RZD) president Mr Vladimir Yakunin .

The Prakovce plant will have capacity to produce around 3600 bogies per year, with units designed for an axleload of up to 25 tonnes. The two companies plan to invest around €20m in the joint venture.

According to UWC, RCC has already received the Register of Certification for Federal Railway Transport, allowing its products to be sold in Russia. The first shipments of RCC products are expected early next year.