Akiem expands its rental offer in Central Europe with the Dragon-2 locomotive from Newag
Akiem, the European leader in the leasing of locomotives and passenger trains, and Newag, the leading Polish rolling stock manufacturer, signed a major contract in Central Europe at the end of 2023, with the aim of promoting European rail and encouraging modal shift. Combining technical expertise, responsiveness and proximity, this collaboration confirms Akiem’s commitment to the region, and underlines Newag’s leadership in the design, supply and maintenance of locomotives.
Akiem is the first European lessor to invest massively in new locomotives to contribute to the development of the railway offer in Central Europe. To date, the region represents 20% of Akiem’s customer portfolio and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years given the development of the region.
The contract, signed in November 2023, concerns a firm order from Akiem for 30 of the latest Newag Dragon-2 six-axle electric locomotives: PL-CZ-SK multi-system Dragon-2 locomotives and 20 Dragon-2 DC PL locomotives equipped with the last-mile thermal module. The contract also provides for an option for 50 additional locomotives. A first Dragon-2 locomotive is being presented today to interested freight operators at an event dedicated to them at the Newag plant in Nowy Sącz (Poland).
"Considering climate challenges and the development of the rail market in Central Europe, our partnership with Newag is part of a dynamic of quality and performance. By providing a fleet of modern and reliable locomotives, we offer our customers in this region a response to their ever-increasing expectations, while contributing to the ecological transition of transport. With a strong team of 30 people in Warsaw, serving a fleet of 160 locomotives in operation and more than 100 additional locomotives by 2029, we are finally the most Polish European rolling stock lessor!"
Anna Puchalowicz, Director of the Akiem's Central Europe Region.
"The strategic partnership with Akiem marks a decisive step in our development. The Dragon-2, renowned for its reliability and energy efficiency, is the ideal solution to meet the growing needs of the railway market. Its versatility, including the multi-system capabilities and last-mile module, ensures seamless operations across various rail networks, offering operators greater flexibility and efficiency. By collaborating with Akiem, we not only expand our footprint in the European leasing market but also support rail operators in their efforts to modernize their fleets with cutting-edge, high-performance locomotives. Together, we contribute to more sustainable and environmentally friendly rail transport, reinforcing rail’s role as a key driver of the green transition in logistics and freight transport."
Józef Michalik, Vice President of NEWAG
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