CZECH-based new entrant RegioJet has announced plans to establish a train leasing subsidiary, RegioJet Pool, while the company has also signed a contract with Alstom for 13 more Traxx MS3 multi-voltage locomotives, deliveries of which will begin this autumn.
The order will expand RegioJet’s fleet of interoperable locomotives to 35. This includes 18 Traxx MS3 locomotives and four Siemens Vectron units.
RegioJet Pool will own and manage the company’s locomotive fleet, and also make traction available to other rail operators “in the near future.” RegioJet CEO, Mr Radim Jančura, says investment in new equipment and renewal of the fleet is a “long-term goal” for the company.
The new Traxx locomotives will be authorised for operation in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Poland and Germany.
“In addition to increased efficiency and lower operating costs, the new locomotives will enable us to further expand our quality and modern rail transport services under the RegioJet brand in the Czech Republic as well as in other European countries,” Jančura says. “At the same time, these purchases clearly confirm our commitment to investing in new train technology that brings greater comfort to passengers.”
RegioJet operates domestic passengers services in the Czech Republic as well as cross-border services between the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Austria and Hungary, and a summer night train to Croatia. It is also approved to operate trains in Austria and Germany.
Regiojet also plans to expand its international rail freight business after launching its inaugural twice-weekly service between Prague and Keckskemét, Hungary, in 2022.
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