The contracting procedures for the production of 100 new passenger coaches for "Ukrzaliznytsia" have been completed.

This is reported by the press service of "Ukrzaliznytsia".

"The company has signed a contract with the domestic manufacturer PJSC "Kryukov Car Building Works" for the purchase of new model passenger coaches equipped with innovative technical solutions that comply with the T gauge. This year, 100 new coaches have been ordered under the relevant budget program," the statement reads.

The coaches from the latest contracted batch will have a service life extended by 20 years, longer maintenance intervals, and will require fewer service personnel for operation, Ukrzaliznytsia reports.

Within the overall order of 100 coaches, a pilot batch of 5 new generation coaches will feature modern management systems, an operational lifespan that is nearly 80% longer, and will accommodate more passengers — up to 44 in one compartment (+10% compared to standard coaches).

The new coaches will have an increased body width and improved layout with sleeping space extended to 2.2 m. The pneumatic suspension, introduced for the first time in Ukrainian sleeper coaches, will ensure added smoothness and reduce swaying during movement. Automatic sliding doors and level-floor intercoach passages will enhance passenger comfort.

These coaches will transition from coal heating to a fully electric system with advanced temperature control in each compartment. This modern system will allow for climate control even during prolonged stops of the train.

The operational lifespan of these coaches is set at 50 years, thanks to the use of stainless steel in their construction. This is 20 years longer than the lifespan of standard Ukrzaliznytsia coaches.

Among the total of 100 new coaches, 5 will be convertible into SV-type compartments. One coach will be accessible and will feature an electric lift, ramp for high platforms, and an enlarged compartment for passengers with wheelchairs.

"The cost of purchasing one passenger coach is approximately 95 million hryvnias. The price for the coach with a compartment for passengers with disabilities is 98.3 million hryvnias. However, taking into account the significantly longer (by 80%) lifespan and higher maintenance intervals, the acquisition of these new generation coaches proves to be more economical and efficient than purchasing standard coaches," the statement notes.

The delivery timeframe for the coaches is 2.5 years from the moment the manufacturer receives an advance payment for production (this includes necessary certification procedures for the new generation coaches). With additional funding from the state budget, Ukrzaliznytsia will be able to continue expanding its fleet renewal program, particularly increasing the share of new generation coaches.