ČD Cargo modernizes its locomotives: The ETCS system is to be installed by CZ LOKO

ČD Cargo continues investing in the modernization of its vehicle fleet. This time it is the introduction of the European Train Control System (ETCS), the installation of which should be performed on 30 locomotives by the company CZ LOKO. The contract is to reach 12.9 million euros.

CZ LOKO has entered into a cooperation with ČD Cargo, based on a strategic intention of ČD Cargo to equip a total of 30 diesel-electric locomotives of the 753.7 series are with a modern ETCS security system. Specifically, this is ETCS Level 2, Baseline 3, version 3.4.0.

This project will be co-financed by the European Union, specifically through the Operational Programme Transport. The conditions of the operational program stipulate that the amount should not exceed 6.75 million crowns per one locomotive, including the prototype.

The current contract with CZ LOKO builds on the already concluded contracts for the equipment of the ETCS system for locomotives of series 163, 363, and 742.71. The current project for the modernization of another 30 locomotives should be completed by the end of 2022. The deadline for completion was thus set at 31 December 2022.

The European Train Control System brings many benefits. In particular, it is improving railway safety. The braking curve model is also improved. It also offers better information directly to rolling stock drivers.

The modernization of the railway system is one of the most important steps in the overall modernization of the railway. It is currently taking place in most European countries. Railpool is one of the other companies that is intensively involved in the modernization of its locomotives. These are Traxx MS2 locomotives, which are modernized for Railpool by company Bombardier.