Romanian rolling stock manufacturer Softronic has completed the delivery of the first electric locomotive modernised under a contract financed through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
The locomotives involved in the project are part of a series originally built by Electroputere Craiova. Under the current framework, each unit undergoes a complete overhaul, with only part of the original chassis retained. All other components are being replaced with new equipment to align with present-day traction, digitalisation and energy-efficiency requirements.
Technical upgrades include asynchronous traction motors, a new cab meeting TSI standards, real-time diagnostics, and reactive braking systems. The units are rebuilt to operate at speeds of up to 160 km/h. CFR Călători is expected to use the refurbished locomotives for passenger services on the electrified mainline network.
The contract with CFR Călători was signed at the end of 2023, with funding provided through the European Union’s post-pandemic recovery instrument. The programme is part of Romania’s efforts to modernise its ageing electric locomotive fleet and reduce emissions in line with European climate objectives.
Certification of the first modernised locomotive was conducted by ONFR-AFER. The locomotive has been assigned the name “Anghel Saligny,” referencing the Romanian engineer known for his contribution to early railway and bridge infrastructure.
Softronic has stated that each of the 19 refurbished locomotives will carry the name of a historical Romanian figure. The list includes Constantin Brâncuși, Smaranda Brăescu, Queen Marie of Romania, and Nicolae Iorga, among others. The next deliveries are expected to follow as the rebuilding process continues.
The Craiova-based company has experience in both locomotive construction and modernisation. Aside from domestic deliveries, Softronic has previously supplied electric locomotives to private operators in other European countries. This contract focuses specifically on the Romanian state operator's needs, using public funds allocated for infrastructure and rolling stock renewal.
