Romanian rail modernization projects advance with EU funding
Romanian state railway company ARF continues expanding the country's electric train fleet through EU-backed modernization programs, with Polish manufacturer Pesa delivering InterRegional EMUs as part of the country's largest rolling stock renewal in decades.
The ongoing fleet modernization represents EUR 650 million in investments, combining EU Recovery and Resilience funds with national co-financing. The program encompasses 29 InterRegional EMUs from Pesa alongside 62 regional units funded through the EU Modernisation Fund.
Strategic network enhancement
The 160 km/h InterRegional EMUs serve nine strategic routes connecting Romania's major cities, including the crucial Cluj-Napoca–Brașov corridor. Each unit features ETCS Level 2 signaling, ensuring compliance with European interoperability standards as Romania integrates deeper into the TEN-T network.
Industry observers note that ARF maintains rigorous acceptance procedures, with Polish manufacturing facilities undergoing regular inspections to verify production processes and validate technical specifications.
"Eastern European rail modernization programs demonstrate the effectiveness of EU structural funding in transforming legacy fleets," transport analysts observe. "Romania's approach combines immediate capacity needs with long-term interoperability goals."
Market dynamics
The modernization efforts align with Romania's expanding electrification projects on key routes including Cluj-Napoca–Oradea and Craiova–Calafat. These developments support both EU sustainable transport targets and enhanced connectivity along TEN-T corridors.
Romanian rail investment continues attracting international manufacturers, with Polish companies leveraging geographical proximity and established production capabilities to secure significant contracts in the growing Eastern European market.