Platzkart, Reinvented: Ukraine Unveils First Modern Third-Class Wagons

Platzkart is back—with a makeover. In a first since independence, Ukraine rolls out brand-new third-class railcars, built by Kryukiv Railcar Plant, funded by the state, and loaded with modern features for long-distance travel on Ukrzaliznytsia lines.

For the first time since Ukraine's independence, Ukrzaliznytsia has procured brand-new third-class (platzkart) railcars, a significant step in its passenger fleet renewal efforts. On April 28, 2025, the Kryukiv Railcar Plant (KVBZ) officially handed over six newly built platzkart carriages to the national railway operator.

As reported by the Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine, the acquisition is fully funded by the state budget under a national rolling stock upgrade programme. "These wagons are modern, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed for long-distance journeys," said Deputy Minister Oleksii Balesta, noting the critical role of third-class carriages on socially significant routes.

Modern Comforts in a Familiar Format

Each new railcar offers 58 seats arranged in ten compartments, nine of which have six berths, while the tenth accommodates four without side berths. Though the core layout remains familiar to generations of platzkart travellers, the carriages feature a range of thoughtful upgrades:

• Soft backrests and ergonomic ladders for easier access to upper bunks
• Mini-partitions for privacy between berths and the aisle
• Secure luggage niches for large backpacks or suitcases
• USB and Type-C charging ports, personal lighting with adjustable brightness, and reclining tables

Additionally, the coaches are equipped with advanced air conditioning and ventilation, vacuum toilets, baby-changing stations, and prams for infants. Contrasting handrail markings, Braille signage, and raised seat numbers improve accessibility for visually impaired passengers.

Built for Today, with Passengers in Mind

The new railcars are based on the shell of model 61-779, but everything else has been completely redesigned. According to Kryukiv Railcar Plant, multiple prototype compartments were built and tested with passenger feedback driving the final design. "We’ve preserved what people know and trust, but brought it into 2025," the company stated in its official release. Stainless steel fittings, softer upholstery, and interior tones in light, calming colours aim to boost comfort and atmosphere during long trips.

Ergonomics were also prioritised. Upper bunk passengers benefit from smaller luggage racks and access to fold-down tables, while those below have padded corner seats and integrated reading pouches. The full-length central aisle is fitted with a continuous energy-saving light strip, and wide-opening sliding doors facilitate smoother boarding.

Fast-Tracked Delivery and Broader Plans

Following their delivery to Kyiv, the six new wagons were assigned to trains No. 21/22 (Kharkiv-Lviv) and No. 103/104 (Lviv-Kramatorsk). This delivery brings the total number of new coaches received under the 66-unit contract to 38, of which 16 will be platzkart type.

The wagons underwent trial runs in April, with routes between Kremenchuk and Poltava validating the upgrades under real operating conditions. Their debut drew media and public attention, especially given that Ukrzaliznytsia had never previously purchased new platzkart units from KVBZ.

According to the Ministry, the broader programme envisions the procurement of 300 new passenger coaches, backed by a UAH 4.4 billion (EUR 94.2 million) allocation in the 2025 state budget. The initiative also lifts prepayment restrictions, allowing for faster contract execution and production launches lasting up to 30 months.

Strategic Role Amid War

KVBZ expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian government and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for prioritising railway investments. In a statement, the manufacturer pointed out the railway’s vital function during wartime—from evacuations to diplomatic missions. "Reliable third-class rail service remains a backbone of Ukraine's transport system," KVBZ added. With over 150 domestic suppliers contributing to the railcar components, the localisation rate of production continues to rise.

Sources: Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine; KVBZ; epravda.com.ua