Ukrzaliznytsia has confirmed its interest in cooperation with China’s CRRC Corporation Limited, the rolling stock manufacturer, the Ukrainian company said on Friday.
According to Board Chairman of Ukrzaliznytsia Yevhen Kravtsov, who is quoted in the report, the company is interested in cooperation with the Chinese manufacturer and is ready to work together to develop mechanisms for such cooperation.
“We have a serious need to update the traction rolling stock, and the Chinese partners offer modern locomotives that can significantly improve the situation with the locomotive fleet and bring Ukrzaliznytsia to a higher level of competitiveness,” he said.
The head of Ukrzaliznytsia recalled: given the tendency to reduce the weight of freight trains, CRRC proposes to supply one-unit 6-axle locomotives, the maintenance of which is 33% cheaper, instead of the usual two-unit 8-axle locomotives.
“Once again I emphasize: the main point of our negotiations will be the purchase price, maintenance, the ability to localize the production of components and spare parts. I am sure that together we will come to a consensus and choose the most favorable conditions for cooperation,” Kravtsov said.
According to the report, Kravtsov took part in negotiations with representatives of CRRC, chaired by Minister of Infrastructure of Ukraine Vladyslav Krykliy.
