Hankavik–VÄTE / PKP IC / ÖBB / Appenzeller Bahnen / Nrail / Spitzke

Hankavik–VÄTE agreement extended to 2029

The agreement between Hankavik and VÄTE Bolagen AB has been extended until December 31, 2029. As part of the extension, two of the four Newag SM42-6Dg locomotives used by VÄTE in Borlänge will be fitted with remote control. The installations will be carried out by Railcare at Skellefteå Port. (ok)

PKP Intercity launches tender for 22 Diesel Multiple Units

PKP Intercity has announced a new tender for the lease of 22 diesel multiple units (DMUs) for a fixed period of 48 months. According to the tender notice, the contract also includes an option to increase the number of leased vehicles by up to 10 additional units. The contracting authority reserves the right to use this option in part or in full. The procurement process is open to suppliers able to demonstrate that they have at least 32 DMUs in their fleet, each with a maximum operating speed of no less than 120 km/h. This condition aims to ensure that only bidders with sufficient capacity and proven rolling stock experience take part in the competition. The deadline for submitting offers has been set for 25th September 2025. The evaluation will be based on a single criterion: gross price. (mp)

Nightjet n.18 arrives in Italy for driving trailer certification tests

On August 26, 2025, ÖBB’s Nightjet n.18 entered Italy via the Brenner Pass. Hauled by locomotive Siemens 1216 017, the train reached Bologna Interporto before continuing to the Bologna San Donato test circuit. In early September, the site will host the first homologation runs for the new Nightjet DANI driving trailer, followed by static trials. This milestone marks a crucial step in the certification process of ÖBB’s next-generation night trains. The introduction of the driving trailer will enable push–pull operation, allowing the Nightjet to run with the locomotive positioned either at the front or rear of the train. This configuration not only increases operational flexibility but also significantly reduces turnaround times at terminal stations — an advantage that will hopefully streamline international overnight services. (lp)

Locomotive design carousel

• CargoUnit 5730 054 has lost its Bahnoperator stickers, it is now plain black;
• PKP IC EU200-005 got stickers promoting CPK = central communication port;
• DB Cargo UK 66068 got rainbow stickers and is ‘proud to be diverse’;
• ELP 2159 272 is the next one for HVLE – it got big orange tiger;
• DB Cargo DE 185 389 lost it’s Audi/CO2 Frei Green/White Design;
• Class66 no. DE6311, still in red, just got BLS Cargo logos.

Appenzeller Bahnen and Stadler plan first automated overland cog railway

Appenzeller Bahnen, in collaboration with Stadler, has submitted a construction application for the world’s first fully automated overland cog railway. The Rheineck–Walzenhausen line in Switzerland is scheduled to begin automated, driverless operation in 2027, supported by Stadler’s vehicle and signalling technology. The project marks a significant development in railway automation. (sw)

Siemens vs Talgo: Spain eyes new trains amid reliability issues

Spain’s Transport Minister, Óscar Puente, will travel to Germany this week to explore new high-speed train options from Siemens, following persistent issues with recent Talgo deliveries. The move signals a potential shift in supplier strategy for future rail infrastructure. (sw)

NRail offers Gravita 10 diesel locomotive for sale

NRail is offering a fully operational 2012 Gravita 10 Serie locomotive, powered by a 1000 kW MTU diesel engine. With 23,748 operating hours and a top speed of 100 km/h, the locomotive is ready for service. Revision is valid until February 2029. (sw)

Next VRS DE 18 Locomotives for Spitzke testing

On August 28, 2025, Vossloh Rolling Stock sent two new DE 18 Stage V locomotives to the test track for Spitzke. The low-emission units, numbered 92 80 4185 303-9 D-SLG and 92 80 4185 304-7 D-SLG, are part of a ten-locomotive order, advancing sustainable rail operations. (sw)

Sightings