At the meeting were Marshal Cezary Przybylski, Deputy Marshals Marcin Krzyżanowski and Grzegorz Macko, and Tymoteusz Myrda, a member of the regional government. Modern Koleje Dolnośląskie trains will run on the route to Trzebnica and, soon, on the connection to Świdnica.
“The development of rail transport is one of the most important tasks we have set ourselves for the coming years. This is why we are both efficiently taking over unused railway lines from PKP and purchasing modern rolling stock for Koleje Dolnośląskie. Lower Silesian residents are increasingly choosing rail as their everyday means of transport, so, in response to their needs, we will consistently develop the regional connections network,” says Marshal Cezary Przybylski.
The modern hybrid Impuls II trains manufactured by Newag of Nowy Sącz cost nearly PLN 170 million in total. The environmentally friendly investment by Koleje Dolnośląskie will make journeys faster and more comfortable. Lower Silesia is one of the first regions to opt for purchasing hybrid trains. Newag, the manufacturer of the new rolling stock, will supply Koleje Dolnośląskie with six three-car Impuls II trains in total, each of which will be able to carry at least 315 passengers.
“Combating transport exclusion and developing rail transport in our region are our priorities. I am pleased that Lower Silesian residents will use modern and comfortable trains that are new to the market. It is worth emphasizing that Lower Silesia is one of only two voivodeships where hybrid trains will operate,” says Deputy Marshal Marcin Krzyżanowski
The new vehicles stand out thanks to their dual electric-diesel propulsion, enabling them to operate on every type of route, including completely unelectrified lines. The hybrid train reaches 160 km/h in electric mode and 120 km/h in diesel mode. The use of innovative technology also makes it possible to reduce exhaust emissions.
“The hybrid IMPULS II on the route from Trzebnica to Wrocław, and ultimately to Świdnica, will be able to fully use its potential; thanks to its dual-drive engine, it can also move smoothly along sections without electric traction. By purchasing hybrid trains, we are investing both in modernity and environmental protection,” adds Deputy Marshal Grzegorz Macko.
The Impuls II trains consist of three cars. The low-floor trains are adapted to the needs of people with reduced mobility. The rolling stock will feature publicly available wireless internet, a modern passenger information system, and waste-separation bins. To increase travel comfort, the trains are equipped with air conditioning, dedicated bicycle spaces, power sockets and USB ports, as well as tables under the windows.
“I am pleased that the Lower Silesian railway map is constantly expanding, and that new trains are being added along with it. By taking over further railway lines from PKP S.A., we are not only implementing our plan to combat transport exclusion, but also meeting the expectations of the region’s residents,” says Tymoteusz Myrda, a member of the Board of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship. “Taking over and then revitalizing further lines will help popularize many attractions in our voivodeship among tourists, as well as increase the economic and social activity of the region’s residents.
The use of innovative technology that reduces exhaust emissions is not the only environmentally friendly solution in the new trains. For the first time in the world, electronic paper technology has been used in them to provide passenger information, replacing the printed posters previously displayed in the vehicles. This solution saves electricity and allows the displayed content to be managed remotely.
“Koleje Dolnośląskie has always focused on a technologically advanced fleet. The contract with Newag, as well as the earlier contract with Pesa of Bydgoszcz, confirms the development path we have chosen and want to continue. Further deliveries are planned soon and will strengthen our rolling stock fleet. All ordered vehicles will be delivered in the first half of 2022,” says Damian Stawikowski, president of Koleje Dolnośląskie.