Alstom, a global leader in innovative and eco-friendly transportation solutions, has officially presented the design of the Traxx Universal electric locomotive developed for Romania’s Railway Reform Authority (ARF). This milestone marks a significant step forward in fulfilling the contract signed in 2024, which includes the delivery of 16 locomotives and a 20-year maintenance and servicing agreement.
The first unit has arrived in Romania and is currently undergoing dynamic testing at the Faurei Testing Centre. These evaluations will continue in August before the locomotive is transferred to Germany for additional trials on lines certified under the Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI). For the duration of the testing phase, the locomotive features a protective blue coating. Upon completion of tests, it will receive its final dark red exterior, reflecting the approved design.
“We are proud to see the first Traxx Universal locomotive for ARF entering testing on schedule. This is a significant step forward in our commitment to delivering high-performance, sustainable mobility solutions for Romania,” said Gabriel Stanciu, Managing Director, Alstom Romania, Bulgaria and Moldova
These four-axle electric locomotives are designed to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h and can haul up to 16 passenger coaches, offering improved speed and efficiency across the national rail network. They will be equipped with Alstom’s advanced ERTMS onboard system, ensuring maximum safety, performance, and seamless operation across Europe’s interoperable railway infrastructure.
The contract also includes provisions for 20 years of full maintenance and repair, with an option to extend for an additional two decades under a separate agreement. Delivery of the locomotives is expected to begin in the first half of 2026. The Traxx platform has been proven across global markets, with over 3,000 locomotives sold and certified in 20 countries, collectively covering more than 300 million kilometres annually.
Alstom has been active in Romania for over 30 years, playing a critical role in the development of the country’s rail infrastructure. The company is a key partner in electrification and signalling upgrades along the Rhine-Danube corridor, and is involved in constructing Romania’s second metro system in Cluj-Napoca, as part of a larger consortium.
Alstom is also deploying Romania’s first CBTC signalling system on Bucharest Metro Line 5, while supplying modern Metropolis trains for the line. The company has maintained Bucharest’s metro fleet for over two decades, with the current service agreement running through 2036. Beyond locomotives, Alstom’s rolling stock contracts in Romania include the supply of electric multiple units (EMUs) for ARF, supported by integrated maintenance services—part of the broader strategy to modernize and strengthen Romania’s public transport network.
