The big day has arrived—Romania’s new EMUs are ready to hit the tracks! After months of anticipation and thorough test runs, ARF’s Coradia Stream trains have officially begun commercial service. It’s time to bid farewell to the ageing, struggling trains and welcome this modern fleet to the country’s railway network!
On November 20, 2024, Alstom and Romania’s Railway Reform Authority (ARF) showcased the first Coradia Stream regional train on a special trip between Bucharest and Brașov. ARF is a state-owned company introducing several new fleets of passenger trains and locomotives to lease to operators. This train is part of the RE-IR1 project, comprising 37 EMUs, and it’s the first new electric train introduced in Romania in 30 years.
Each EMU has six cars and can seat 351 passengers. Its fully low-floor design ensures easy access for all passengers. To make boarding and exiting more efficient, the middle cars have two entry doors on each side. The train features four environmentally friendly toilets, one specifically designed for passengers with reduced mobility.
The trains have a modern passenger information system with audio announcements and digital displays. A standout feature is the advanced digital passenger counting system, which uses high-precision sensors to provide accurate data on passenger traffic. This information helps operators optimize and plan services.
Not only new trains
The agreement between ARF and Alstom includes maintenance services for 15 years, with an option to extend for another 15 years. Alstom is investing €50 million in a depot in central Bucharest. This facility will have an underfloor wheel lathe and a digital diagnostic system. The project’s first phase, a testing and essential maintenance centre, was completed in April 2024. The total project will span 30,000 square meters.
- Alstom Coradia Stream – contract RE-IR1;
- Pesa Elf2EU – contract RE-IR2;
- Pesa Elf2EU – contract RE-R;
- Alstom Traxx3 MS;
An exhaustive list of what ARF has on order can be found here.
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