€1 billion contract to refurbish and maintain 280 Egyptian locomotives given to Škoda

The Škoda Group has recently inked contracts exceeding €1 billion for the revitalization and maintenance of a minimum of 280 diesel locomotives belonging to the Egyptian National Railway. Positioned as a strategic move into the African market, Škoda Group formalized two substantial agreements on June 26. The first pact outlines the comprehensive refurbishment of locomotives spanning a nine-year timeline, while the second encompasses the provision of full-service maintenance extending up to 15 years.

Initial work will involve the modernization of two prototype locomotives at Škoda Group's facility in Šumperk, Czech Republic. Subsequent locomotives will undergo overhauls and maintenance within Egypt. The extensive refurbishment plan includes the overhaul of traction and pneumatic systems, comprehensive modernization of braking systems and electrical wiring, and a notable transformation of the cabs. This transformation will involve the installation of new control panels and modification of the train control system, presenting the locomotives with a significant design overhaul. In addition to these services, Škoda Group is committed to providing training both in Egypt and the Czech Republic. This training initiative aims to equip Egyptian personnel with the necessary skills to conduct work on the locomotives by European industrial standards. The contracts signify not only a substantial financial commitment but also a strategic move by the Škoda Group to establish a foothold and contribute to the modernization of railway infrastructure in Africa.

“These contracts mark a historic milestone for Škoda Group”, said CEO Didier Pfleger. “We are uniquely positioned to deliver superior locomotive rehabilitation and overhaul services. We aim to use our skills and experience to build lasting relationships and make a long-term contribution to improving the quality of the rail sector in the Middle East and Africa. The success of being awarded with this project is further confirmation of our strategy of expanding into foreign markets.”

Marek Herbst, Senior Vice-President Service, said “We are convinced that full-service is the most efficient way for our customers to receive quality care and maintenance for their entire fleet of vehicles.”