Škoda Group (Škoda) has secured two contracts with Egyptian National Railways (ENR)

The first contract involves the overhaul of locomotives over a nine-year period, while the second contract entails full-service maintenance for up to 15 years. The combined value of these agreements exceeds €1 billion, according to Škoda.

The majority of the work will be conducted in Egypt, promoting local involvement and encompassing all production positions.

Didier Pfleger, CEO of Škoda Group, stated, “These contracts represent a significant milestone for Škoda Group. Leveraging our extensive expertise in servicing and modernization, we are uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional locomotive rehabilitation and overhaul services.”

“Our objective is to establish long-term relationships and contribute to the enhancement of the rail sector in the Middle East and Africa by leveraging our skills and experience,” Pfleger added.

The project will commence with the modernization of two prototype locomotives at Škoda’s production and service site in Šumperk, Czech Republic. Subsequently, the remaining locomotives will be modernized, overhauled, and maintained in Egypt.

To ensure successful implementation, Škoda will provide training at its facilities specifically tailored to the prototypes. The Egyptian staff will acquire the necessary expertise both in Egypt and in the Czech Republic to carry out locomotive work in accordance with European industrial standards.

“We are thrilled to enhance the reliability, availability, and safety of Egyptian national railways and passengers. Over the next nine years, we will deliver at least 280 rehabilitated and overhauled locomotives to Egypt, extending their service life by another 15-20 years,” said Marek Herbst, Senior Service VP at Škoda Group.

Herbst further added, “We will provide full-service for these locomotives for up to 15 years. We firmly believe that full-service is the most efficient way for our customers to receive comprehensive care and maintenance for their entire fleet of vehicles.”

ENR’s locomotives will undergo a comprehensive review and renewal of their components. The drives and pneumatic parts will be overhauled, while the braking systems and electrical wiring will be modernized extensively.

The driver’s cabs will be transformed, with the installation of new control panels. The Train Control and Management System (TCMS) will also undergo inspection and modification.