Company A/S Passenger has attributed the new tender of electrical trains to CAF, a Spanish company, the wining model is CIVITY. It is a huge blow to RVR-Bombardier association and also for Latvia in general. For RVR because it is their main activity. Ok, they lost the tram tender because they were not manufacturing trams for a while, but Electrical trains is their speciality. Money goes away of Latvia again and is not spent for local salaries, so lowering again the balance of Latvia and lowering the income. Maybe RVR did not do the right thing to be competitive, they did not hire designers to change the company products, image and strategy?

I don't have answers, the fact is there. My question now is "Will RVR close or partnership with Bombardier will survive and work for other products for Eastern market?"

There is still the big market of high speed train for the Baltics. One day Berlin-Warsaw-Moscow will be connected and also Warsaw- Riga-Tallinn-St-Petersburg. Western european gauge will reach Kaunas soon too. There is need to revive standard connections between Riga, Kaunas, Vilnius and Tallinn...

You can read the full article on db.lv here (http://www.db.lv/razosana/transports-logistika/vilcienu-konkursa-gardo-kumosu-iegust-spani-243252)

Here are pictures of the new exterior and interior. Sure, the quality, the practicality, the design, the service is there!
Source of images: www.db.lv, probably CAF and Vitālijs Stīpnieks, Dienas Mediji

http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity(1).jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/thumbnails/scale_705x470/article/0025/243252/281051_ORIGINAL_1313746194.jpg.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity1(2).jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity2.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity3.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity4.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity5.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity6.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity7.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity8.jpg
http://www.db.lv/uploads/ck/images/civity9.jpg

Only, small reward is that RVR will be subcontractor of CAF. For which amount, I don't know. You can read the full article extracted from RVR website:

http://www.rvr.lv (still very poor website for RVR and not updated, sorry, the press release is not in english, use google translator if you wish)

AS „Rīgas Vagonbūves rūpnīca” paziņojums masu medijiem
Rīga, 2011. gada 29. jūnijā

RVR tika piespiesta izstāties no „Pasažieru vilciena” rīkotā konkursa. Uzņēmums zaudējis apmēram pusmiljonu eiro

Papildus noteikumi, kas tika izvirzīti AS „Pasažieru vilciens” rīkotajā konkursā par elektro- un dīzeļvilcienu piegādi, neļāva RVR tajā piedalīties kā pilntiesīgam dalībniekam (ģenerāluzņēmējam). RVR ir spiesta izstāties no konkursa un pieņemt „Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles, S.A.” (CAF) piedāvājumu kļūt par tā apakšuzņēmēju.

Atbilstoši AS „Pasažieru vilciens” rīkotā konkursa kvalifikācijas posma sākotnējiem noteikumiem, RVR iesniedza pieteikumu dalībai konkursā par elektro- un dīzeļvilcienu piegādi sadarbībā ar „Bombardier Transportation” (RVR kā ģenerāluzņēmējs, BT kā apakšuzņēmējs). Abi uzņēmumi noslēdza sadarbības līgumu un uzņēmās savstarpējas saistības.

Šis līgums nodrošināja uz eksportu orientētas vilcienu ražotnes izveidi Latvijā. „Bombardier” tai garantēja investīcijas, mūsdienu tehnoloģiju pārnesi, iekārtu piegādi, kvalitātes kontroli un personāla apmācību.

Pēc tam, kad noslēdzās kvalifikācijas posms, Pasūtītājs izvirzīja RVR un „Bombardier” tandēmam īpašu papildus prasību par solidāru atbildību. Atbilstoši tai, ja šie uzņēmumi uzvarētu konkursā, apakšuzņēmējam (BT) ģenerāluzņēmēja (RVR) vietā nāktos pilnībā atbildēt Pasūtītājam (PV) par to, vai ģenerāluzņēmējs pilda (nepilda) savas saistības: piegādāt vilcienu sastāvus un apkalpot tos 30 gadu garumā. Šāda prasība, zinot nozares globālo pieredzi, skan pavisam absurdi, turklāt tā diskriminē RVR un nostāda to nevienādās pozīcijās attiecībā pret citiem konkursa dalībniekiem. Turklāt šāda prasība nav izvirzīta nevienam citam konkursa dalībniekam, jo neviena cita dalībnieka apakšuzņēmējiem nav jāuzņemas solidāra atbildība par ģenerāluzņēmēju.


Ņemot vērā to, ka konkursa pirmā posma noteikumi neparedzēja šāda veida prasības apakšuzņēmējiem, RVR un BT slēgtais līgums par sadarbību paredzēja klasisku atbildības sadali ķēdē „apakšuzņēmējs (BT) – ģenerāluzņēmējs (RVR) – Pasūtītājs (PV)”.

RVR vairakkārt iesniedza sūdzības Iepirkumu uzraudzības birojā, lūdzot novērst šo un arī citas pretrunas vai neprecizitātes konkursa nolikumā, kas apdraud godīgas konkurences principus. Tomēr lielākā daļa RVR pretenziju netika apmierinātas.

6. maijā, kad no IUB tika saņemts pēdējais oficiālais atteikums, kļuva skaidrs, ka RVR faktiski tiek dzīta strupceļā. „Bombardier” tam izvirzīto PV prasību par solidāru atbildību novērtēja kā neadekvātu, jo tā neatbilda šī konkursa sākotnējiem noteikumiem, kā arī konkursu rīkošanas starptautiskajai praksei.

Tādā veidā „palēninātas iedarbības mīna”, ko jau sarūpēja iepriekšējā PV valde, beidzot „detonēja”. Notika tas, ko tik uzstājīgi centās panākt viens no konkursa dalībniekiem – „Stadler”, vairākkārt pieprasot nepielaist RVR līdzdalībai konkursā. RVR ir spiesta to pamest ģenerāluzņēmēja statusā, jo tā apakšuzņēmējs „Bombardier” nevēlas pildīt PV absurdās prasības.

Rezultātā Latvija ir zaudējusi nopietnu kapitāla un tehnoloģiju investoru. Rīgā netiks uzcelta RVR un „Bombardier” kopējā rūpnīca. RVR zaudējumi, ko radīja piespiedu atteikšanās no dalības konkursā kopā ar BT, pēc provizoriskiem aprēķiniem, ir apmēram pusmiljons eiro lieli.

Nokļūstot šādā sarežģītā situācijā, RVR pieņēma cita konkursa dalībnieka – spāņu uzņēmuma „Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles, S.A.” (CAF) izteikto sadarbības piedāvājumu, piekrītot kļūt par tā apakšuzņēmēju.


Paziņojumu sagatavoja RVR preses dienests
29243077
rvr.info@inbox.lv

With all these new trains coming into our railway, does that mean that our railroad network and stations with their respective stops are going to get renovated just like in Estonia?

^^. Of course. Sooner or later they'll have to do that. Other way the height between platform and vehicle floor will be too large. As you can see there is no steps under the door in the vehicle.

Technical Characteristics
DIMENSIONS

:: Cab car length:21.500 mm
:: Intermediate car length: 16.200 mm
:: Carbody width: 2.880 mm
:: Minimun floor height: 600 mm
:: Train height: 4.300 mm
:: New wheel diameter: 850 mm


Our platforms' height sometimes even 0 mm (from the top of the rail). So 60 cm is too high for a step.

^^ Any idea when they will start doing that? Because no way people can use these trains without raised platforms. Old grannies having to jump up 60 cm :lol:

Pasažieru Vilciens has 145 stop in Latvia. Where will they get the money to reconstruct all of them?

The trains look great by the way :banana:

Only, small reward is that RVR will be subcontractor of CAF. For which amount, I don't know. You can read the full article extracted from RVR website:



The reward is that we get brand new, modern, awesome, fast, quiet trains, instead of the 50 year old cattle cars we now have. RVR can go screw themselves for all I care. They have never made a modern train and they wanted to participate in this as a main contractor? They don't even have drawings for such a train. If their partnership with Bombardier is so promising, they can continue it without the Pasažieru Vilciens contract. I don't see why tiny little Latvia screws up their business plans so much. I just hope EU does not take away the 100 million LVL they plan to give us for the trains because of this.

Better CAF in an honest way than RVR through lies and bribes, IMO.

Lol @ you all, RVR will built most of those CAF trains. And, as I said like 50 times already, whole contest was under risk several times because of PV's illegitimate wish to gain Stadler's win.

^^

Stadler was the best choice.

Better CAF in an honest way than RVR through lies and bribes, IMO.

What? :lol: RVR junkyard (literary) does not have enough money for bribes.

Interesting that the floor height is 600mm while the platform height standard is 550mm so there still will be 5 cm step?

Interesting that the floor height is 600mm while the platform height standard is 550mm so there still will be 5 cm step?
That's normal. All Stadler FLIRT trains have a low-floor height of 600mm, for example.

Congratulations! :) Atleast you now have some clarity about your new trains (dare we say that it's no surprise that CAF won?)

Pasažieru Vilciens has 145 stop in Latvia. Where will they get the money to reconstruct all of them?
Our stations & station platforms reconstruction is largely funded by EU,so I think same applies for Latvia - shared funding by local railway companies and EU.
It doesn't necessarily mean that all stations will be instantly rebuilt. Just think of the scale of this task ;) For example,about 110 stations get new platforms here,but this doesn't cover all stations in Estonia. Some of them will be rebuilt later.
The reward is that we get brand new, modern, awesome, fast, quiet trains, instead of the 50 year old cattle cars we now have. RVR can go screw themselves for all I care. They have never made a modern train and they wanted to participate in this as a main contractor? They don't even have drawings for such a train. If their partnership with Bombardier is so promising, they can continue it without the Pasažieru Vilciens contract. I don't see why tiny little Latvia screws up their business plans so much. I just hope EU does not take away the 100 million LVL they plan to give us for the trains because of this.
I totally agree with you. Getting new,modern passenger trains to Latvia is more important than trying to resurrect smth,which has been long dead.
Lol @ you all, RVR will built most of those CAF trains. And, as I said like 50 times already, whole contest was under risk several times because of PV's illegitimate wish to gain Stadler's win.
I thought it was the RVR who stirred up trouble and was trying to derail the procurement. Stadler simply got fed up with all the BS and that's why they filed a complaints.
So,in a way they got what they wanted. Imho,RVR will assemble trains,but CAF will build them in Spain.

Btw,I hope that there won't be any issues with CAF trains. They lost here,because their offer didn't meet final train specifications and some of those specifications were related to suitability to Northern European climate & overall weather proofness of trains :shifty:

Tin_Can, как вам ваши новые поезда, нравятся?! И подорожали ли билеты из-за этого?

Tin_Can, как вам ваши новые поезда, нравятся?! И подорожали ли билеты из-за этого?
I hope you don't mind,if I give my answer in English. My Russian is bit too rusty :P

It's hard to say anything about our new trains right now (we get our first new train in next year) - details are really sketchy and right now we basically only know that we get Stadlers and we know how they will look like (I mean the livery) Not exactly smth,what you can build your opinion upon ;)
Anyway,I personally like them already :D As they will be based on Stadler Flirts used in Finland and these are really sexy trains :drool:

And no,ticket prices aren't affected by train purchase. Here train tickets are (and most likely will remain) one of most stable public transportation tickets in terms of cost.

More pics from here (http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?s=&showtopic=2742&view=findpost&p=74860):

http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27877
http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27878
http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27879
http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27880
http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27881

I hope you don't mind,if I give my answer in English. My Russian is bit too rusty :P


Clearly, I understand that English is easier :)
I thought that the new cars you have there ... nothing comparable in the real soon! ;)

The passenger train project envisages rebuilding of platforms in train stops as well. "All inclusive" project.

Regarding RVR - they were hopeless as main contractors, unfortunately. They (and we in general) should be lucky as hell that they were contracted by CAF to make bodies for trains. Thus the company still will has a choice to survive.

Looks like Lithuania is the only Baltic country that's buying different types of trains in small numbers at a time. Latvia and Estonia have both opted for large bids. Estonia will receive 38 trains and Latvia....how many trains does this bid include? Sorry, if this has been said before.

Anyways, I'm glad that someone other than Stadler won in Latvia because now there will be some difference in rolling stock among the Baltics. :D

34 EMU's and 7 DMU's. Maybe someone know the size of current PV fleet? Can't find on their website.

34 EMU's and 7 DMU's. Maybe someone know the size of current PV fleet? Can't find on their website.

While the number of new EMU's probably covers Latvian need,the number of DMU's looks really small. Are there any plans of buying more later?

34 EMU's and 7 DMU's. Maybe someone know the size of current PV fleet? Can't find on their website.

131 EMU's and 42 DMU's (according to en.wiki+railfaneurope). Still, most of EMU's are old ER2's, so it might mean that the number also includes those trainsets that are rotting in Zasulauks etc.

I wonder which routes will get those DMUs. Hopefully Rīga - Valmiera will get some :D But obviously they're going to major routes, I see those EMUs going mostly to Jūrmala and Sigulda.

131 EMU's and 42 DMU's (according to en.wiki+railfaneurope). Still, most of EMU's are old ER2's, so it might mean that the number also includes those trainsets that are rotting in Zasulauks etc.

I think this is way too big number. Did a little research on the schedule - it can be done with 12 DMU units.

131 EMU's and 42 DMU's (according to en.wiki+railfaneurope). Still, most of EMU's are old ER2's, so it might mean that the number also includes those trainsets that are rotting in Zasulauks etc.

I red somewhere that in Latvia we have 22 EMU's used by Pasažieru Vilciens.

I red somewhere that in Latvia we have 22 EMU's used by Pasažieru Vilciens.

found answer to this question

27.07.2009 16:42 AS "Pasažieru vilciens" ir 138 elektrovilcienu vagoni un 68 dīzeļvilcienu vagoni. Šobrīd ir izveidoti 24 elektrovilcienu sastāvi un 19 dīzeļvilcienu sastāvi. Vagoni tiek norakstīti tikai pēc maksimālā kalpošanas laika sasniegšanas, tas nenotiek katru gadu.

We had 24 EMU's and 19 DMU's in use at 2009, but in 2010 2 EMU's were token of the line, so we now have 22 EMU's or less.

So 22 EMU's will be replaced with 34 units but 19 DMU with 7 units :| As the new trains will be smaller, I guess we will see extensive coupling of EMUs rather than increase of frequencies. But why so less DMU is still a mystery.

They will buy 16 more DMU's later- http://www.ldz.lv/?object_id=4383
Konkursā plānots iegādāties 34 jaunus elektrovilcienus un 7 dīzeļvilcienus ar ES Kohēzijas fonda līdzfinansējumu, kā arī iegūt cenu vēl 16 dīzeļvilcieniem, lai, ja apstākļi ļaus, līdz 2016.gadam nomainītu arī visu dīzeļvilcienu parku. Iepirkuma priekšmetā ietilpst arī elektrovilcienu un dīzeļvilcienu uzturēšana 30 gadu periodā.

So the price of the 34+7 trains will be 430 million LVL? How much will EU cover? Seems like a lot for Pasažieru Vilciens.

They will buy 16 more DMU's later- http://www.ldz.lv/?object_id=4383

Nice! :okay: Google translator says that additional diesel trains purchase would allow to replace all diesel trains by 2016 (just year later after EMU's & first DMU's arrive)

Btw,has anyone noticed this design flaw (I hope it's not the final layout of the train and is just random 'how it might look' image)? Adding (folding) seats right in front of doors isn't exactly smart thing. Basically,every time train stop,people sitting there need to get up & make room for people entering or exiting the train.
http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27881


Oh,and maybe someone could post stuff about new CAF Civity trains to Latvian Railways thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1172505) in Railways forum on SSC? I'm sure that this stuff is interesting for outsiders too ;)

Btw,has anyone noticed this design flaw (I hope it's not the final layout of the train and is just random 'how it might look' image)? Adding (folding) seats right in front of doors isn't exactly smart thing. Basically,every time train stop,people sitting there need to get up & make room for people entering or exiting the train.
http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=27881


This is just a visualization mistake. The PV's tender documentation does not allow the seats in front of doors.

Today, Latvian version of modernized ČME3 left depot, AFAIK, for the first time. Sorry for the lack of illustration. It looks as Lithuanian ones, only painted similar like LDz's international trains. :lol:

BTW how do you like new PV brand style?

The first priority should have been to create developed infrastructure for railways - to make order on perons, to renew signalling systems, to close more than half of stations - e.g. while you are going from Riga-Daugavpils you have to stop some 10 times in stations where there are some 100 people living in. This all slows down journey time. And the main item, you have to make good railways for trains - it doesn't matter what kind of train there will be - e.g. oldest steam one or newest "bullet" train from Japan ... if you have curved railways everywere - there is simply no reason. If you can cross a railway under VEF bridge in Riga or in any other place .... :) and nobody will fee you.. why we need those new trains? To sum up, is again a huge corruption - as always more welcomed, when there are 100 millions.....

Signalling systems are renewed right now, half of stations (less) will be closed and perons will be made as a part of this project. Fencing of railways is step by step done.
Why should you see everything in a bad light?

Signalling systems are renewed right now, half of stations (less) will be closed and perons will be made as a part of this project. Fencing of railways is step by step done.
Why should you see everything in a bad light?

1. where exactly signalling have been proceeded?
2. "step by step" fencing :) isnt it funny ?

Normally, all project starts from planning, designing and only than building. And trains belongs to the last group - building.
This is my own opinion, but until you haven't completed infrastructure - new trains does not make a sense.
Its the same as casual Porsche e.g. cars in Riga center with private numbers - e.g. JANIS, VALDIS etc., and every businessman coming ir Riga is asking - is Riga the richest city in the Europe?

For me, and others logically thinking, priority nr.1 would be establish and develop local railways : Riga to Daugavpils or Ventspils or Rezekne or Liepaja - to have the shorstest period of time, in terms of travelling.
Lets say, if today by diesel train you can reach Daugavpils or Rezekne in 3 hours -> and this is for 210km !!! Is it normally?:)
Will new train, e.g. CAF, Bombardier or Lada Kalina make a sense? Thinking logically - of course not, because by you cannot drive e.g. Ferrari on local motorways without defects.

Talking about curves on tracks on Rīga- Skulte line there is winding section between Vecaķi and Garcims where speed limit is one of the higest on this line- 100km/h and between Kalngale and Garcims stations once i recorded 104 km/h top speed in curve!
And there is high platform (55 cm) already built in Dendrarijs station- http://www.aktivs.org/?drukat=1&zoomzina=291 !

So the price of the 34+7 trains will be 430 million LVL? How much will EU cover? Seems like a lot for Pasažieru Vilciens.

Откуда такая цифра? 140млн. LVL

The modernisation of signalling system:
http://www.ldz.lv/?object_id=4249

And, yes, fencing is done step by step, not in a single campaign. This by far is not the hottest issue for railway. The hottest issues regarding passenger railway is: the aged, slow rolling stock, unsuitable passenger stations, unreasoned number of stations and their location, which is surviving since 1920ies.
These three problems should be solved with EU project - which, by the way, is based on thorough analysis.

First priority is Riga suburban railway network - the only one which can bring profit to railway in short term. Due to bad demography and low purchasing power the medium-range train network will be unprofitable for long time - but if there will be good profits from Riga - Jurmala trains, there will be possibilities to subsidize the unprofitable Riga - Liepaja line and some more.
...jeesh, is there a need to explain all of this?

1. where exactly signalling have been proceeded?

http://ldz.lv/?object_id=4455

LDz sadarbības partneri šajā projektā un darbu izpildītāji ir konsorcijs Thales Rail Signalling Solutions GmbH un SIA Thales Rail Signalling Solutions Baltics (THALES). Projekta pirmā posma ietvaros ar sadarbības partneri THALES paredzēts Daugavpils – Indra, Jelgava – Krustpils un Jelgava – Ventspils posmā kopgarumā 355,8 km pilnībā uzstādīt un modernizēt:

· jaunu centralizācijas sistēmu 32 stacijās (t.sk. optisko un dažādu citu kabeļu izbūve);

· divus satiksmes kontroles centrus Daugavpilī un Jelgavā;

· 781 jaunu signālu;

· 241 pārmiju;

· 83 pārbrauktuvju aprīkojuma elementus.

+ signaling has been recently renewed on Krustpils - Daugavpils and Krustpils - Rēzekne lines. Tracks are in very good condition almost everywhere.

***

Here's ČME3M-4644:

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/663/cme3m4644.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/cme3m4644.jpg/)

Откуда такая цифра? 140млн. LVL

Kā liecina IUB interneta mājaslapā publicētais paziņojums par lēmuma pieņemšanu, līguma summa ir 610 757 053 eiro (429 240 056 lati) bez pievienotās vērtības nodokļa.

Lēmums atzīt CAF par piemērotāko pretendentu pieņemts slēgtā konkursā. Ar CAF tiks slēgti divi piegādes un uzturēšanas līgumi - viens par 436 696 037 eiro (306 909 974 latiem) un otrs - par 174 061 016 eiro (122 330 082 latiem).

http://unity.lv/lv/news/427805/

http://www.db.lv/razosana/transports-logistika/ap-610-miljonu-eiro-vertas-vilcienu-piegades-tiesibas-iegust-spanijas-caf-243336

So which is it?

Talking about curves on tracks on Rīga- Skulte line there is winding section between Vecaķi and Garcims where speed limit is one of the higest on this line- 100km/h and between Kalngale and Garcims stations once i recorded 104 km/h top speed in curve!
And there is high platform (55 cm) already built in Dendrarijs station- http://www.aktivs.org/?drukat=1&zoomzina=291 !

Press reported that renewed Tukums-Riga morning express train will reach 120 km/h in some sections of route.

http://ldz.lv/?object_id=4455

Here's ČME3M-4644:

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/663/cme3m4644.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/cme3m4644.jpg/)

Looks great :cheers: Did they only paint it, or update the engine, electronics also?

Did they only paint it

This is how original looks like, of course they did more than "just paint" to it. :)

http://railway-publish.com/upload/site1/catalog/images/big/p7048805.jpg

News: Railway bridge in Riga will be painted in red colour..

''Remonta laikā Dzelzceļa tiltu Rīgā krāsos sarkanīgu''

Sākts Dzelzceļa tilta pār Daugavu Rīgā remonts un, lai izslēgtu korozijas attīstību, tiek veikta krāsojuma atjaunošana. Patlaban tiek klāta grunts krāsa, tāpēc tilts ir sarkanīgā tonī, informēja VAS "Latvijas Dzelzceļš" (LDz). Pēc grunts krāsas tikšot klāta pelēkā virskrāsa, un tilts atgūs iepriekšējo izskatu: http://www.tvnet.lv/zinas/latvija/390018-remonta_laika_dzelzcela_tiltu_riga_krasos_sarkanigu

here is night shot (by me)

http://i56.tinypic.com/2r22og0.jpg

News: Railway bridge in Riga will be painted in red colour..

Well, that's not really what it says. :D

Have they actually considered other colors than grey? I think black, white or copper green would be a nice change.

update 30.08.2011

http://i53.tinypic.com/2v3ofbb.jpg

It won't be painted red. It is just the primer, it will later be painted back in to gray.
source (in latvian) (http://aculiecinieks.delfi.lv/news/riga/dzelzcela-tilts-maina-krasu.d?id=40308605)
But I have read somewhere, that the lighting will be changed from blue to red-white-red.

Have they actually considered other colors than grey? I think black, white or copper green would be a nice change.

Oh, I would love copper green. :)

Recently I got surprised by new signs on freight locos. It's clearly written SIA LDZ RITOŠĀ SASTĀVA SERVISS Are they owners of the locos now or what?

W4zN9_jc9d0

Reconstruction of rail part in Torņakalns on Jelgava-Riga line.
http://i350.photobucket.com/albums/q420/Ripley9895/IMG_7242.jpg

I found info about modernized ČME3.
AS Latvijas dzelzceļš (LDz) meitasuzņēmums LDz ritošā sastāva serviss (LDzRSS) veicis vērienīgu manevru lokomotīves ČME 3M 4464 modernizāciju, kuras ietvaros tapusi gandrīz no jauna uzbūvēta lokomotīve ar divreiz lielāku jaudu un daudz labākiem ekoloģijas un degvielas patēriņa rādītājiem.
Lokomotīves modernizāciju savam meitasuzņēmumam pasūtījis LDz manevru darbiem Daugavpils šķirošanas uzkalnā, kur jaunā lokomotīve aizstās divas vecās ČME3 lokomotīves.
„Modernizācija un attīstība LDz koncerna uzņēmumos notiek pastāvīgi un strauji. Mēs rūpīgi izvērtējam savas investīcijas un ieguldām tikai tajos projektos, par kuriem esam pārliecināti, ka ar uzviju atgūsim ieguldīto. Šis projekts atmaksāsies ļoti ātri, bet īpaši nozīmīgs tas ir ar to, ka Latvijā pēc vairākiem gadiem gandrīz no jauna ir uzbūvēta lokomotīve. Mēs ar to lepojamies, un šo darbu turpināsim,” gandarīts ir LDz prezidents Uģis Magonis.
LDz RSS valdes loceklis Ivars Rullis atklāj, ka viņa uzņēmums ir saņēmis pasūtījumu nākamo divu gadu laikā modernizēt vēl 13 šādas lokomotīves. „No vecās lokomotīves jaunajā tiek atstātas tikai dažas rāmja daļas, bet kabīne, motors, ģenerators, un citas daļas ir pilnīgi jaunas. Jaunā lokomotīve ir divreiz jaudīgāka un daudz ekonomiskāka, kas ļaus pasūtītājam ievērojami ietaupīt ekspluatējot šo lokomotīvi,” atklāj I.Rullis.
Pagaidām Daugavpils šķirošanas uzkalnā manevru darbiem izmanto divjūgā savienotas ČME3 lokomotīves. Modernizētā ČME3M 4644 lokomotīve atbilst ES prasībām. Tā ir videi draudzīgāka atbilstoši EUROIIIA izmešu normām. Eļļas patēriņš ir par 94% mazāks nekā 2 ČME3 (divjūgā). Savukārt degviela pie jaudas 1550 kW tiks ekonomēta par 53%. Plānots, ka šis projekts atmaksāsies triju gadu laikā.
Koncerns Latvijas dzelzceļš sastāv no valdošā uzņēmuma VAS Latvijas dzelzceļš un piecām meitassabiedrībām – AS LatRailNet, kas veic infrastruktūras maksas noteikšanu un dzelzceļa infrastruktūras jaudas sadali, SIA LDz Cargo, kas nodrošina dzelzceļa kravu pārvadājumus un starptautiskos pasažieru pārvadājumus; infrastruktūras būvniecības un uzturēšanas uzņēmuma SIA LDz Infrastruktūra; ritošā sastāva remonta un uzturēšanas uzņēmuma SIA LDz Ritošā sastāva serviss, kā arī apsardzes uzņēmuma SIA LDz Apsardze.
Sagatavoja LDz Sabiedrisko attiecību daļa

http://www.ldz.lv/?object_id=4770

Some key features of modernized ČME3M over normal ČME3:
2 times more powerful than original;
Compatible with EUROIIIA emissions norm;
Oil consumption is 94% lover than 2 ČME3
At power of 1550 kW fuel consumption is 53% lover than ČME3;


In 2 years time they will modernize 13 ČME3's, and this project is planed to pay off in 3 years time.

Some key features of modernized ČME3M over normal ČME3:
2 times more powerful than original;
Compatible with EUROIIIA emissions norm;
Oil consumption is 94% lover than 2 ČME3
At power of 1550 kW fuel consumption is 53% lover than ČME3;


In 2 years time they will modernize 13 ČME3's, and this project is planed to pay off in 3 years time.

oil consumption 94% lower? what an upgrade oO :banana:

IUB allowed PV to buy new trains!!! http://www.iub.gov.lv/files/lemumi/lem200328.pdf

Due to second track construction project Skrīveri-Krustpils, construction has started of the second bridge over Aiviekste river near Pļaviņas town. When the new bridge will be opened, the old one will have central span changed.
http://www.staburags.lv/portals/vietejas/raksts.html?xml_id=23082

Could somebody update this thread whit newest info about Pasažieru vilciens tender.

When I red some news [i will continue this in Latvian] pilnīgi gribējās pakārt aiz olām tos valdošos politiķus un ziņu autorus, kas bez precīziem skaitļiem vienkārši nomelno šo konkursu!!!

When I red some news [i will continue this in Latvian] pilnīgi gribējās pakārt aiz olām tos valdošos politiķus un ziņu autorus, kas bez precīziem skaitļiem vienkārši nomelno šo konkursu!!!

Skaitļus jau var sazīmēt (http://www.pietiek.com/foto/25112011/valdibas_zinojums_par_pasazieru_vilciena_konkursu_-_publicejam_visu_slepeno_dokumentu/img_0001), bet jēgas maz- tie jau nu ļoti izskatās no gaisa grābti. Bet viss tas sacerējums kopumā daļēji izskatās norakstīts no Stadler sūdzības IUB, kuru, starp citu, atzina par nepamatotu. Atšķirības vien tāda, ka te jau tiešā tekstā stāstīts, cik Stadler vilcieni labi (pieminēti igauņu kā optimālais variants).

Arguments, ka CAF cenšas iesmērēt 3 vagonus par 4 cenu... :lol: :lol::lol:

ČME3M for week now has been working with trains in Šķirotava, mostly B and J yards (right next to Jāņavārti stop). So if someone wants to see it in action, you may find it there.

I've read from business news that Pasažieru Vilciens tender might be cancelled if it's delayed until January (I already knew that before) and that Latvian transportation minister has said that if CAF/RVR contract is cancelled,money will be relocated to other projects,instead of being used for purchasing new passenger trains.
Meanwhile Stadler has signed agreement with Daugavpils Locomotive Repair Plant for "developing products for Latvian market".

:colbert: Imho,all news seemed rather biased,so can someone explain what's really going on around Pasažieru Vilciens tender?

Intresting news from CAF vs Stadler competition.

I quess for maintenance co-operation that could be done with Finland, Latvia, Estonia and Belarus it could be good idea to get Stadlers? Plus the Spanish technology is infamous for poor quality..

http://ldzsa.lv/lat/

http://www.trans-port.com.ua/index.php?newsid=34785

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/good_for_business/?doc=50487

http://www.baltic-course.com/rus/transport/?doc=52063

http://bizness.delfi.lv/versijas/stadler-lemumu-pienemejiem-vajadzetu-loti-uzmanigi-izvertet-jauno-vilcienu-uzturesanas-izmaksas.d?id=41950080

http://bizness.delfi.lv/versijas/caf-jaunie-vilcieni-as-pasazieru-vilciens-laus-ietaupit-1096-miljonus-eiro.d?id=41956378

2012-01-18 Fima Takes Part in Significant Latvian Railways Projects
http://www.fima.lt/index.php/site_structure/news/55

http://www.verslobanga.lt/lt/spaudai.full/4f167fc1cddfd



Intresting news. It seems cargo capacity will increase big time.

Seems, our new trains will be produced in Riga under "CAF" licence. Yesterday government agreed to this purchase, today court rejected a complaint by "Stadler". "Stadler" still has 10 days to appeal this decision.

Of course, I would have much concern about the quality of this production. But at least the decision has been taken, let's see what comes out of it.

Seems, our new trains will be produced in Riga under "CAF" licence. Yesterday government agreed to this purchase, today court rejected a complaint by "Stadler". "Stadler" still has 10 days to appeal this decision.

Of course, I would have much concern about the quality of this production. But at least the decision has been taken, let's see what comes out of it.

In Finland also there was paid learning lessons from CAF quality. The trams CAF delivered had major winter climate related issues.. ..As well as the Italian Pendolinos..

So there IS actually real fact reasons why some technical devices are more expencive than others :)).

I dont quite understand why Latvia want to go solo with this train tender. All the neighbour countries have given good references from Stadler product.

I dont quite understand why Latvia want to go solo with this train tender.
What's not to understand?
1) Monopoly in the region is not a positive thing. "Others did it" is not a valid argument.
2) We have RVR. Estonia and Lithuania does not have train factory.
This is quite high game for Latvian economics - Stadler certainly did not need to revive our local RVR factory, while CAF agreed to do this. There still is an open question - what will be the quality of trains and whether the factory will really stand on feet. There I have doubts. But wonders happen. Regarding winter - we have engineers which know a lot about building and operating the trains in winter, there shouldn't be worries.
3) In spite of the PR campaign from Stadler, CAF offer (costs per seat etc.) was cheaper than Stadler's offer.

There was dirty game from both sides and from politicians too.

By the way passenger railway in Latvia is 3 times bigger thing than in Lithuania and Estonia.
http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/statistics_explained/index.php?title=File:Rail_passenger_transport,_2008-2010.png&filetimestamp=20111117162314

What's not to understand?

By the way passenger railway in Latvia is 3 times bigger thing than in Lithuania and Estonia.
http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/statistics_explained/index.php?title=File:Rail_passenger_transport,_2008-2010.png&filetimestamp=20111117162314

Pity that list is is only from EU countries. I am curious from Belarus numbers.

But in Finland numbers are bigger than in Latvia. Sweden is even bigger than Finland. ..Hmm.. I wonder what trains Sweden use.. Finland is dedicated into Stadler

By the way passenger railway in Latvia is 3 times bigger thing than in Lithuania and Estonia.
http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/statistics_explained/index.php?title=File:Rail_passenger_transport,_2008-2010.png&filetimestamp=20111117162314

Only because there is Jūrmala-Riga, what is mostly inner urban- line and Riga-Jelgava line, what are actually urban-suburban lines and in Germany would be considered S-bahn.
I really envy Rigians Jūrmala line, wish Naujoji Vilnia-Vilnius-Lentvaris-Trakai would be such a line, going every 15-20 minutes.. But these parts of a city and suburbs are not densely inhabited and road network is OK.

Seems, our new trains will be produced in Riga under "CAF" licence. Yesterday government agreed to this purchase, today court rejected a complaint by "Stadler". "Stadler" still has 10 days to appeal this decision.

Of course, I would have much concern about the quality of this production. But at least the decision has been taken, let's see what comes out of it.
Finally some clarity! :banana: I hope that those 10 days pass without any problems and train order from CAF will be finally carried out.
2) We have RVR. Estonia and Lithuania does not have train factory.
This is quite high game for Latvian economics - Stadler certainly did not need to revive our local RVR factory, while CAF agreed to do this. There still is an open question - what will be the quality of trains and whether the factory will really stand on feet. There I have doubts. But wonders happen. Regarding winter - we have engineers which know a lot about building and operating the trains in winter, there shouldn't be worries.
Ah yes,but will it be cheaper to revive RVR (and we are really talking about grave digging here) or order trains dedicated,already running factories in Europe? ;)
..Hmm.. I wonder what trains Sweden use..
Mainly Alstom (class X40 & X60) & Bombardier (classes X50 to X55) trains.

Mainly Alstom (class X40 & X60) & Bombardier (classes X50 to X55) trains.

Hmm.. What happened to the Bombardier in this Latvia tender? I remember that was the first planned partner?

But I bet same thing will happend in Latvia with CAF as in Helsinki with CAF trams. They just are not designed for nordic enviroment. ..Like Italian Pendolinos..

Atleast Finland bought some Stadlers and NO PROBLEMS from them.. Unlike Pendolino. I think Greece, Italy, Spain etc. should just focus into wine farming and stop building technology..

U know, I realized with time, that quality of material is not the most important issue. What is important is the economics coming back to the area that purchases, specially when it is a small country not earning a lot of money. If material needs to be repaired, it is work for local people, but of course not too many problems. CAF is booming and taking a lot of markets in Europe. They built the last metro cars of Brussels. They are not bad. I wish the best for Latvia.

Pity that list is is only from EU countries. I am curious from Belarus numbers.

But in Finland numbers are bigger than in Latvia. Sweden is even bigger than Finland. ..Hmm.. I wonder what trains Sweden use.. Finland is dedicated into Stadler

Gauge is different in Sweden than Finland. Finland follows Russian standard like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania but not Poland. Some of the last tenders in Sweden were won by Bombardier (the yellow ones) if I am correct, like the fast train linking Stockholm to its main airport. Correct me if I am wrong...

Good news!

Latvian resignalling goes live 31 January 2012 (http://www.railwaygazette.com/index.php?id=44&no_cache=1&tx_ttnews[tt_news]=14698&cHash=66e5d32603a96416536e21a2df52a310)

LATVIA: National railway holding company LDZ officially unveiled its first fully-computerised signalling and train control system on January 26, marking completion of a seven-year project partially funded by the European Union’s Cohesion Fund.

The resignalling of Latvia’s east-west main line linking Jelgava and Daugavpils is one of the first applications of microprocessor-based train control systems to the 1 520 mm gauge network in the Baltic States, replacing obsolete relay interlockings more than 50 years old, manual level crossings and regional traffic control systems. Total cost of the project was €93m, of which the EU provided €67m, the Latvian government €22m and LDZ the remainder.

Covering a total of 54 stations, the scheme included 1 287 new signals and 4 500 km of cables plus modernisation of 125 level crossings. The whole route is now managed from two control centres at Jelgava and Daugavpils. The work was undertaken by Thales, Bombardier Belam, Systra and Safege Consulting Engineers.

‘The new system will increase the safety of rail operations, and will help us to optimise traffic flows on the east-west corridor, which is one of Latvia’s most important transit routes’, said LDZ President Uģis Magonis. The head of the railway’s project management department Aija Poča added that the work provided ‘a stable platform for future development’, and the ‘diverse experience’ would ‘help in planning and management of future projects of a similar scale.’

Does anyone know what kind of maintenence works Stadler will perform in Latvia, Daugavpils?

Could it be possible that Estonian, Belarusian and ?Lithuanian? Stadlers would be maintained in Latvia?

Stadler and Daugavpils lokomotivju remonta rupnica to cooperate in railroad development projects 20.12.2011.

Today, the Swiss company Stadler Rail Group (Stadler) and locomotive repair factory Daugavpils lokomotivju remonta rupnica (DLRR) signed a letter of intent on cooperation in railroad development projects in Latvia in 2012, according to DLRR's announcement at NASDAQ OMX Riga.

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/good_for_business/?doc=50487

08.04.2011: Modernization of Latvian Railway


The Latvian Railway Company LDZ (Latvijas Dzelzceļš) as one of the market leaders in the Baltic Area is developing the modernization of its railway network. In the focus of the feasibil-ity study for the further electrification of the railway network being now in the final stage of its elaboration are financial and economic analyses as well as investigations regarding different possibilities for the power supply system to be used. The study commissioned by LDZ is in elaboration by ETC in cooperation with COWI A/S and GRE Gauff Rail Engineering.

Feasibililty study on railway electrification launched

Latvijas Dzelzceļš (LDz) launched a feasibility study on electrification of Latvian railway lines. Within the framework of the study it is planned to assess economic justification of Latvian railway system electrification – costs, potential economic benefits. There will be also determined, in which lines this process should be done primarily and what technical solutions could there be – either to develop existing 3.3 kV DC system or to convert systems according to the most progressive 25 kV AC that is widely used in Europe.

The study is commissioned by the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia, which selected in a tender a consolidation of companies ETC Transport Consultants & COWI Latvia/GRE as a study performer.

“Certainly electrification of lines is the most suitable development scenario in the long term – electric traction is more high-powered, and more economical and environmentally friendly regarding fuel costs. However, these are huge investments, which will justify in a relatively long period of time; therefore we need to consider very carefully whether potential benefits are commensurable with costs,” said LDz Chairman of the Board Uģis Magonis.

Already this summer the consultants will report on the state of infrastructure and within six months it will be reported on one of the most suitable electrification options – DC system improvement, application of a new AC system or coexistence of both systems (keeping old DC system and applying new system). Full report on electrification options :banana:will be available within 15 months:banana:.

Aija Poča, Head of Development Planning and Project Management Division, said that this report is necessary for technical development strategy elaboration on LDz development in the future: “LDz lines electrification is a complex arrangement and it does not involve only railway lines reconstruction, but also purchase of new electric traction and rolling stock. On the basis of this study we will be able to include in the strategy our plans regarding further railway development stages and reconstruction issues.”

Concern Latvijas dzelzce ļš comprises the holding company SJSC Latvijas dzelzceļš and four subsidiaries – LDz Cargo Ltd., a rail freight carrier; LDz infrastruktūra Ltd., a company providing infrastructure construction and maintenance works; LDz ritošā sastāva serviss Ltd., a company providing rolling stock repairs and maintenance works, and LDz Apsardze Ltd., a security company.

http://www.etc-consult.de/wEnglisch/aktuelles/2011_04_08_52346696_meldung.shtml

http://www.etc-consult.de/wEnglisch/aktuelles/2011_04_08_52346696_meldung.shtml


ERR.. How LDZ was thinking to place order of trains before there is even info WHAT TYPE OF trains are recommended to use??

FLASH FROM THE PAST :)

Hi everyone!

Does anyone how companies ETC Transport Consultants & COWI Latvia/GRE are proceeding with the Latvia railway electrification study?

Great news for 160km/h train fans is that BELARUS IS building even at this very moment both North-South and East-west AC network :)

http://translate.google.fi/translate?sl=ru&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fforum.railwayz.info%2Fviewtopic.php%3Ff%3D10%26t%3D4%26sid%3D5d58cabe9974f91b4b3f5ab1effd721b%26start%3D700

http://rh.by/by/154/50/4171/?tpl=105

http://translate.google.fi/translate?hl=fi&sl=be&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Frh.by%2Fby%2F154%2F50%2F4171%2F%3Ftpl%3D105


..It seems China has intrest to invest into such project.

..I am quite sure that Latvia too could ask same way like Belarus ask money from China :)

Please please! Could someone really check some real answers into this question. I think its extreamly intresting topic :)

http://www.cowi.com/menu/NewsandMedia/News/generalnews/Pages/cowi-has-sold-its-company-in-latvia.aspx

http://www.baltkonsults.lv/index.php?id=2

EDIT: I quess the study will be available roundish 1.8.2012? Since it will take 15 months and it started 08.04.2011

Does anyone know what kind of maintenence works Stadler will perform in Latvia, Daugavpils?

Could it be possible that Estonian, Belarusian and ?Lithuanian? Stadlers would be maintained in Latvia?

Stadler and Daugavpils lokomotivju remonta rupnica to cooperate in railroad development projects 20.12.2011.

Today, the Swiss company Stadler Rail Group (Stadler) and locomotive repair factory Daugavpils lokomotivju remonta rupnica (DLRR) signed a letter of intent on cooperation in railroad development projects in Latvia in 2012, according to DLRR's announcement at NASDAQ OMX Riga.

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/good_for_business/?doc=50487
No. As part of new passenger train purchase,Elektriraudtee is going to buy depot equipment needed to repair Stadlers in Estonia & enough spare parts to perform maintenance in next 5 years. Depot workers will get additional training and afaik,for next few years Stadler also has their own employees in Estonia.

I've got a feeling that deal between Stadler & Daugavpils repair depot was just an excuse in battle for Latvian passenger train contract. CAF has agreement with RVR,so naturally Stadler had to have their own "friendly" repair & maintenance facility in Latvia ;)

Intresting news from LDz (electrification etc.)

->
http://www.telegraf.lv/news/ldz-stroit-puty-v-budushtee

Новости LDZ
http://forum.railwayz.info/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=752&start=575

http://www.microsofttranslator.com/bv.aspx?from=ru&to=en&a=http%3A%2F%2Fforum.myriga.info%2Findex.php%3Fs%3D3cbbe867cc5aa4e9468ba6b169f69169%26showforum%3D28

http://forum.myriga.info/index.php?showforum=28

http://ldzsa.lv/eng/

Only because there is Jūrmala-Riga, what is mostly inner urban- line and Riga-Jelgava line, what are actually urban-suburban lines and in Germany would be considered S-bahn.
I really envy Rigians Jūrmala line, wish Naujoji Vilnia-Vilnius-Lentvaris-Trakai would be such a line, going every 15-20 minutes.. But these parts of a city and suburbs are not densely inhabited and road network is OK.

without Riga Jurmala LDZ still has highier figures because of Riga Aizkraukle and Riga Skulte. but yes, this are suburban lines, intercity is almost dead except Riga - Valmiera, Riga rezekne and Riga - Daugavpisl routes.

Hmm.. What happened to the Bombardier in this Latvia tender? I remember that was the first planned partner?

But I bet same thing will happend in Latvia with CAF as in Helsinki with CAF trams. They just are not designed for nordic enviroment. ..Like Italian Pendolinos..

Atleast Finland bought some Stadlers and NO PROBLEMS from them.. Unlike Pendolino. I think Greece, Italy, Spain etc. should just focus into wine farming and stop building technology..

What on Earth are the "CAF trams" you are talking about?
There are currently three types of trams in operation in Finland:
* High-floor trams by Valmet, technically based on the Düwag construction
* High-floor Düwag trams bought used from Mannheim
* Low-floor AdTranz/Bombardier trams (VarioTram)

The AdTranz trams have worked _very_ badly, but that's got nothing to with CAF.
When it comes to the Pendolinos, well, they don't work in summer either, so it's really not a problem with winter compatibility, but rather a problem with compatibility with moving from place A to place B. Pendolinos haven't worked very well in Czech Republic, Slovenia or apparently anywhere :D But then again, at least the Finnish Pendolinos have little, perhaps nothing at all, to do with CAF.

The only trains used in Finland that I know to be built by CAF are some of the Alstom-designed Sm4 local train units. The Sm4 have had their problems, but nevertheless seem to be the most reliable type of EMUs in use in Finland. My experience has been that in winter when there's a lot of snow Sm4 has been more reliable than Sm1/Sm2 - which are not considered very unreliable, either.
So, all in all, CAF has a good image among Finnish railfans. And besides, the Latvian winters are, even if they can get snowy and cold, damn mild compared to those in Finland, so what's the problem?

There will be CAF trams in Stockholm very soon, though. Then we'll see, how CAF really manages in the north :)

And with Stadlers... There have been problems especially with couplers in wintertime, but they haven't been that dramatic - rather what you'll always get when you order a new class of trains to a country. It seems that after these problems in the beginning are over, the Stadler-built Sm5 will be as reliable or possibly even better than Sm4.

There are CAF trams also in belgrade, a rather cold place in winters.

There are CAF trams also in belgrade, a rather cold place in winters.

Äh? The temperature barely reaches even -5°C in the coldest time of the year. Sounds like it's about as cold as Paris :D

What on Earth are the "CAF trams" you are talking about?
There are currently three types of trams in operation in Finland:
* High-floor trams by Valmet, technically based on the Düwag construction
* High-floor Düwag trams bought used from Mannheim
* Low-floor AdTranz/Bombardier trams (VarioTram)

The AdTranz trams have worked _very_ badly, but that's got nothing to with CAF.
When it comes to the Pendolinos, well, they don't work in summer either, so it's really not a problem with winter compatibility, but rather a problem with compatibility with moving from place A to place B. Pendolinos haven't worked very well in Czech Republic, Slovenia or apparently anywhere :D But then again, at least the Finnish Pendolinos have little, perhaps nothing at all, to do with CAF.

The only trains used in Finland that I know to be built by CAF are some of the Alstom-designed Sm4 local train units. The Sm4 have had their problems, but nevertheless seem to be the most reliable type of EMUs in use in Finland. My experience has been that in winter when there's a lot of snow Sm4 has been more reliable than Sm1/Sm2 - which are not considered very unreliable, either.
So, all in all, CAF has a good image among Finnish railfans. And besides, the Latvian winters are, even if they can get snowy and cold, damn mild compared to those in Finland, so what's the problem?

There will be CAF trams in Stockholm very soon, though. Then we'll see, how CAF really manages in the north :)

And with Stadlers... There have been problems especially with couplers in wintertime, but they haven't been that dramatic - rather what you'll always get when you order a new class of trains to a country. It seems that after these problems in the beginning are over, the Stadler-built Sm5 will be as reliable or possibly even better than Sm4.

...and now all Sm5 (Stadler Flirt) trainsets are out of order because the main switches have short circuited twice within a couple of days. When that happens, there is a very loud bang and some smoke appears inside the train. On the first occassion the passengers panicked and broke the windows as they thought someone is shooting or a bomb has exploded...
So, that's for the perfect Stadler trains. Good they are, nevertheless. Just not almighty.

I wonder what Belarus will do? They have copy + paste train models from Finnish ones

->

http://www.stadlerrail.com/en/search/?q=belarus

http://www.stadlerrail.com/en/references/belarusian-railways-interregio/

http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/stadler-wins-belarus-train-contract.html

EDIT:

According to Helsingin sanomat in MINSK is happening now the same kind of problems!!!

http://yle.fi/alueet/helsinki/2012/03/flirt-junien_korjaukset_voivat_kestaa_viikkoja_3299089.html

Латвийская железнодорожная компания Latvijas Dzelzceļs (LDz) в 2012 году реализует четыре крупных инфраструктурных проекта, сообщил на пресс-конференции глава LDz Угис Магонис. Речь идет о реконструкции горки рижской сортировочной станции Шкиротава, модернизации системы на перегоне Болдерая 1 – Засулаукс, строитель-стве станции Болдерая 2 с соединительными путями до терминалов острова Криеву и обновлении путей в коридоре Rail Baltica. Кроме того, продолжится строительство вторых путей в коридоре Восток – Запад на участке Скривери – Крустпилс. По дан-ным LDz, инвестиции в модернизацию горки станции Шкиротова составят $52,5 млн. Модернизация сигнализации, телекоммуникаций и электрооборудования на участке Болдерая 1 – Засулаукс потребует $20,8 млн. Согласно предварительным планам, строительство станции Болдерая 2 с соединительными путями обойдется в $61,67 млн, а обновление путей в коридоре Rail Baltica – $68 млн. Что касается возведения вторых путей на участке Скривери – Крустпилс, то на него планируется направить $133 млн. Все проекты LDz будут реализованы при софинансировании (до 75% от общей суммы) из фондов Евросоюза.

http://ncrtl.kazlogistics.kz/files/digest13.pdf

http://forum.tr.ru/read.php?7,1130860,page=all

According to google translator there is big development ahead in Latvia

^^
:colbert: თქვენ ლაპარაკობს ინგლისურად? ან ლატვიურ ენაზე?

我不明白他或她寫的語言 ?

Top post -> Russian, then Gruusian and then China :).

Anyway, in the links and in topic was mentioned that LDz has decided to throw DC network into the past.

2012 October there will be more information from funding of AC electrification or Latvian railways.

Infra project is expected to start 2015 and will end 2022.

CAF trains that Latvia has ordered will be delivered as AC trains.

Main priority of AC network constriuntion is Ventsipils-Riga-Daugavpils and Riga- Valga tracks.

^^ Here in more appropriate language. (http://ldz.lv/?object_id=4877)

Main priority of AC network constriuntion is Ventsipils-Riga-Daugavpils and Riga- Valga tracks.
Interesting. Both routes have heavy freight traffic,so maybe electrification of those railways is a subtle hint,that in the future Latvia plans to acquire electric locomotives for cargo hauling?

Interesting. Both routes have heavy freight traffic,so maybe electrification of those railways is a subtle hint,that in the future Latvia plans to acquire electric locomotives for cargo hauling?

Well, freight traffic is the reason for electrification.

Well, freight traffic is the reason for electrification.

I quess both operation costs, passenger and freight costs will be reduced. Plust the potential for extend AC network much more than DC ever could..

Anyway happy to see that Latvia follow big trends like making supportive infrastructure decisions into Rail Baltica (25kV AC, 50 Hz)

I read from some article that DC network is old and would need extensive repairs anyway. DC network was also used only in Riga region..

So the switch into AC in Latvia has all needed arguments.

..Off the record.. I remember that I have found some old article that also Estonia is dreaming increase freight competiveness by making in the future study of DC to AC.

It’s also noteworthy that 25 kV is the standard of European Union and new electrifications should be done with the 25 kV voltage whenever it makes any sense.

So, from end of May, Rīga- Peterburg goes through Daugavpils, most of the DMU's runs from Rīga coupled in pairs and separated whether in Pļaviņas or Krustpils- depends of destinations-, and we could have some EMU's on Jāņāvārti - Zemitāni stretch.

Sauce. (http://forum.railwayz.info/viewtopic.php?p=33483#p33483)

So, from end of May, Rīga- Peterburg goes through Daugavpils

Really? That is not stated is source and sounds weird. I have always thought that route trough Rēzekne already is a big detour.

Really? That is not stated is source and sounds weird. I have always thought that route trough Rēzekne already is a big detour.

That would be weird in an other country, but in our circumstances is reasonable. The plan is to merge Peterburg's train with Rīga - Minsk, uncouple it in Daugavpils and then stick it with Vilnius - Peterburg. The advantages are: free 'slot' in schedule = more place for cargo, money saved on locomotive and crew, money saved on pay for infrastructure (in this case ~Ls 1000 for run), hope that two biggest towns of Latgale will finally have train connection for reasonable price. Disadvantages: ticket prices will rise and, the saddest thing, very bad Rīga - Kārsava link.

^^ Here in more appropriate language. (http://ldz.lv/?object_id=4877)

but nobody understands this islanders language except some million people... :ohno:

That would be weird in an other country, but in our circumstances is reasonable. The plan is to merge Peterburg's train with Rīga - Minsk, uncouple it in Daugavpils and then stick it with Vilnius - Peterburg. The advantages are: free 'slot' in schedule = more place for cargo, money saved on locomotive and crew, money saved on pay for infrastructure (in this case ~Ls 1000 for run), hope that two biggest towns of Latgale will finally have train connection for reasonable price. Disadvantages: ticket prices will rise and, the saddest thing, very bad Rīga - Kārsava link.

if LDZ was more flexible they could prolongue Riga - Rezekne till Karsava.

SM cer, ka vienošanās ar CAF ir "tuvāko dienu jautājums"
http://ldzsa.lv/lat/jaunumi/321.html

Senāts atsakās vērtēt "Stadler" sūdzību par atļauju turpināt vērienīgo vilcienu iepirkumu
http://ldzsa.lv/lat/jaunumi/315.html

Court turned down Stadler’s complaint concerning procurement of new trains by Pasazieru vilciens
Alla Petrova, BC, Riga, 14.03.2012.Print version

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=54547

Interesting news - LDz currently experience congestion on Skulte railway in Riga and the restrictions on level crossing closure at Tilta and Ezera streets during peak hours are (temporary?) lifted.
Source (latvian):
http://www.diena.lv/latvija/riga/sarkandaugavas-dzelzcela-parbrauktuves-bus-slegtas-ilgak-13936890

Why is LDz reconstructing platforms to the old height? Why not 55cm for the new trains???

Indeed very intresting news!

Picked from forum reference ->

The leaders of the Belarusian and Moscow railroads to discuss issues of bilateral cooperation in the talks in Minsk.

At the talks discussed issues such as organizing skip wagon on the interstate butt points of the Belarusian and Moscow railroads, work locomotives and locomotive crews in adjacent areas, the technical state of freight cars passed along the seams, the return of empty wagons from the Moscow railway stations in the Belarusian Railways; prospects for electrification of railway lines Rudnya Smolensk-Vitebsk-Zaolsha Bigosovo. As a result of negotiations to sign the protocol.

See the line (http://maps.google.fi/maps?saddr=Smolensk&daddr=Rudnya+to:Vitebsk+to:Zaolsha+to:Bigosovo,+Vitebsk+province,+Belarus&hl=fi&sll=55.262305,29.974449&sspn=6.043959,7.097168&geocode=%3B%3BFUQzSgMds77MASnne3z843PFRjH0_0pi0DcGQw%3B%3BFcj0UwMd6EGnASk36Hi41g7DRjEY3ldd6V8Ukw&mra=ls&t=m&z=7)

http://forum.esmasoft.com/viewtopic.php?t=1131&start=125
(PAGE 6)

Also similar news in LDZ News ->

21.martā Rīgā notika Latvijas un Baltkrievijas dzelzceļu pārstāvju tikšanās, kuras laikā tika apspriesta aktuālā situācija par kravu pārvadājumiem no Baltkrievijas uz Latvijas ostām un Latvijas kravu saņēmējiem 2012.g. 1. ceturksnī, kā arī jautājums par kravu vagonu izmantošanu.

http://www.ldz.lv/?object_id=4903

So basically.. In the news has been allready that LDZ will go AC. It seems they go AC all the way to Daugavpils!

Same preparation news at Belarusian news ->

http://mintrans.gov.by/rus/press_centre/news/~page__m18=4~news__m18=1597

http://www.belta.by/ru/all_news/economics/Belorusskaja-i-Moskovskaja-zheleznye-dorogi-dogovorilis-o-razvitii-sotrudnichestva_i_588829.html

Not a single word of CAF order finally being signed? :dunno:

Oh well...
Pasažieru Vilciens signed train purchase contract with Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF).

http://i43.tinypic.com/x38lzm.jpg

Pasažieru Vilciens finally signed train purchase contract with CAF. Previously CAF's victory on passenger trains supply procurement was contested by Stadler Rail. However,court ruled in favour of CAF's entry and at the beginning of April contract was finally signed.
Pasažieru Vilciens CEO Nils Freivalds visited CAF factories and expressed confidence that Spanish company is able to fulfil order for 41 passenger trains by 2015. PV ordered 34 EMU's and 7 DMU's - order will replace entirely old Latvian electric passenger train fleet and 1/3 of current diesel passenger train fleet. Freivalds said the fact that the trains to be built for Latvia were identical was their main advantage: the new trains will ensure flexible passenger transport options as they may be combined in various ways in just couple minutes, from one-car trains to trains with multiple cars. Also, there will be no problems with adapting the new trains for using different sources of energy. CEO refused to reveal exact cost of contract.
New trains are expected to start operating at first half of 2014.
Biggest issues between Pasažieru Vilciens and CAF were caused by PV's service & maintenance demand in contract. By that CAF is obliged to provide train maintenance for next 30 years.

Sources: http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=55593
http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=55696

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW

Quotation from My Riga -->

The whole history of the train issue:

http://www.ves.lv/article/210971

http://www.ves.lv/article/210967

Quotation from My Riga -->

The whole history of the train issue:

http://www.ves.lv/article/210971

http://www.ves.lv/article/210967

""Поязд шинове ПЕСА" (Польша) и "Кончар электричка возила" (Хорватия)"

Ээээ.......нахрен переводить оригинальное название?! Пипец! )))))

^^
Riechter,please follow Latvian forum language rules - only Latvian & English language :) Thanks!



17 million € will be invested into RVR factory.

It's announced that RVR will invest 13 million € and CAF will add another 4 million € into RVR factory upgrading.
30 RVR workers will recieve training in Spain and participate in tran manufacturing process there.

First 6 CAF Civity trains for Pasažieru Vilciens will be entirely built in Spain,next 8 will be partially built in Spain and final assembly will be done in Latvia. Remaining trains will be built in Latvia,in RVR factory.

Source: http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/good_for_business/?doc=55746

I hope you guys find it interesting to know that in addition to Latvia,CAF Civity trains are also being sold to Italy (Trieste region),Montenegro and Germany (the latter can opt for up to 400 EMU's!)

Here's how they will look in DB livery:
http://es.globedia.com/imagenes/noticias/2011/11/4/caf-desembarca-alemania-optara-suministro-400-trenes-regionales_1_954778.jpg

im happy these are not Stadler :D

05-04-2012 CAF signs a contract in Ñatvia for the supply of 41 trains

http://www.caf.es/ingles/prensa/noticia.php?id=125

Super! The new trains look so solid! :)
Does anybody know when Pasažieru Vilciens will begin to reconstruct their served railway stations?

High-speed rail in Latvia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_in_Latvia

Spanski CAF nastavlja prodor na trziste istocne Evrope...veliki ugovor upravo potpisan sa Letonijom:


CAF wins Latvian train contract
10 April 2012

LATVIA: National passenger operator Pasazieru Vilciens has ordered 34 electric and seven diesel-electric multiple-units from Spanish rolling stock manufacturer CAF.

The contract signed on April 2 is worth 144m lats, however a 30-year maintenance deal takes the total value to €400m, which according to CAF is the largest rolling stock contract ever awarded in Latvia.

Based on CAF's Civity product platform, the low-floor 1 520 mm gauge trainsets will each be formed of two motor cars and one intermediate trailer, with an overall length of 59·2 m and full-width gangways. The 3 kV DC EMUs will be able to accommodate 270 seated and 190 standing passengers, with the DEMUs offering 300 seats and room for 150 standees. Maximum speed will be 140 km/h.

Deliveries are due to start in mid-2014 for completion by the end of 2015. CAF says that some production will be subcontracted to Riga-based manufacturer RVR, and other local investment resulting from the contract will include the construction and upgrading of rolling stock maintenance facilities.


Isti model kao i za ZCG...

http://i43.tinypic.com/x38lzm.jpg

Pasazieru Vilciens plans to close 37 trips http://www.kasjauns.lv/lv/zinas/77242/latvija-plano-slegt-37-pasazieru-vilcienu-reisus


Is it real plan to close so many trips? Or like every year, just scaring with it?

How many diesel train trips are in danger? Hope that longer trips aren't in danger.

Intresting news indeed!



It seems that the funding of AC electrification will be decided at October 1, 2012.

First route to be electrified is Ventsipils-Riga-Daugavpils (http://maps.google.fi/maps?saddr=Ventspils,+Latvia&daddr=R%C4%ABga,+R%C4%ABga+galvaspils%C4%93ta,+Latvija+to:Daugavpils+(V%C3%A4in%C3%A4nlinna),+Daugavpils,+Latvia&hl=fi&ie=UTF8&ll=56.565536,24.675293&spn=5.747206,16.907959&sll=62.593341,27.575684&sspn=19.428104,67.631836&geocode=FTbHawMdMnpJASnZSEJmlsjxRjGg_vJozc8ABA%3BFRvuZAMdX81vASntPQflsM_uRjEw_vJozc8ABA%3BFWuJVAMdPKGUASnbyQH_MJTCRjHwB_Nozc8ABA&oq=daugav&mra=ls&t=m&z=7)

http://www.db.lv/razosana/transports-logistika/rigas-maskavas-vilciena-cela-pavadito-laiku-plano-samazinat-par-vairakam-stundam-370794

From this map you can see the Phase 1 planned AC network of Latvia
http://www.irliepaja.lv/lv/raksti/bizness/dzelzcela-elektrifikaciju-liepajas-ostas-virziena-neparedz/

(See picture Latvian Railway network Electrification)
***************************************************************************************

http://www.irliepaja.lv/lv/raksti/bizness/page:26/

http://www.latvenergo.lv/portal/page/portal/Latvian/latvenergo/main

http://ldzsa.lv/eng/

...My quess is that this sort of project will be tried to be funded from Rail Baltica funds, like everything else nowdays :). ..And other quess is that later Valka will be included into electrification project (to get RB funding)

EDIT: Actually better to use 2 sources of money Cohesion Fund for this project and Rail Baltica funds for later AC extensio project.

Recently had an exclusive opportunity to see the famous Dendrārijs stop on Aizkraukle direction. The new high platform:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7154051494_a881303a67_b.jpg

I though there are two platforms like that - one for each direction. The reality is bit different - the pedestrian cross goes to nowhere:
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5327/7154087109_165674f98a_b.jpg

And on the other side is the worst platform I've seen in Latvia. :D It's about 10m long, you get in train trough the first door.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7269/7154087619_283cbe849c_b.jpg
This stop is such a waste of energy, don't know why it hasn't been closed so far.

When will begin all Latvia's train stops reconstruction? Any news? In comparison, Estonians have already begun with theirs.

Well when Latvia will get their new CAF trains it seems seems so absurdic that such a train will stop into that kind of platform :D.

..Even Monty Python seems realistic compared into such a thing :))

Where are the safety fences by the way? And safety signaling system? I mean I really love to see pedestian who can spot and avoid a train that go 160km/h full speed.

And is it not nowdays illeagal to let pedestians to cross railway track by foot? Why there is no underground passage for other traffic such as cars, bicycles and pedestians?

Recently had an exclusive opportunity to see the famous Dendrārijs stop on Aizkraukle direction.

Absurd stop I must say.

Does Dendrārijs have low passenger numbers or what?

Btw,it seems bit odd that platform was rebuilt on only one side.

When will begin all Latvia's train stops reconstruction? Any news? In comparison, Estonians have already begun with theirs.
Yeah,would like to hear some new information about it. I think few years ago someone mentioned in Rail Baltica (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=320660) thread that reconstruction of Latvian stations was planned. Has there been any progress since then?

It's damn time consuming process (here in Estonia station platforms reconstruction begun in 2009 and will be completed in 2014-2015) and I'd imagine that smth has to happen soon,as new CAF Civity trains start arriving to Latvia in close future.

Btw,it seems bit odd that platform was rebuilt on only one side.


.

This platform was rebuilt as "experimental" in 2009.

This platform was rebuilt as "experimental" in 2009.

Ha ha, and is now cited by LDz in every single press release about infrastructure upgrades to new standards. In reality there were many platforms reconstructed after 2009 to the good old low height. :bash:

Does Dendrārijs have low passenger numbers or what?

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7227/7169363942_0c13c817de_b.jpg
And Aizkraukle direction trains are stopping there in every single journey. Interesting how much it cost electricity-wise? The only passengers the stop makes sense is those few farms on south-east, but even they could go directly to Skrīveri.

DRAMA CONTINUES NO EU FUNDING FOR LATVIANS!!

WRONG KIND OF CONRTACT FROM LATVIANS!

Latvia end up paying the entire cost of new trains due to faulty contract signed with CAF
Alla Petrova, BC, Riga, 16.05.2012.Print version

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57378

Okay. Now its real Latvia will not get any funding for the new trains from EU.

What a fuck-up.

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57465

as a result PV boss steps down.

Pasazieru vilciens CEO Freivalds steps down 18.05.2012

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57484

^^ Why do Latvians insist on building some parts of the trains themselves?

Stadler: Freivalds was unable to properly manage new train procurement for Latvia Alla Petrova, BC, Riga, 18.05.2012.Print version

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57511


New Pasazieru vilciens CEO bent on bringing new trains to Latvia Alla Petrova, BC, Riga, 18.05.2012.Print version
http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57498

Pasazieru vilciens board replaced Alla Petrova, BC, Riga, 22.05.2012.

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57599

This is like The deal program :D. Donald Thrump say "YOU ARE ALL FIRED!"

This is hilarious, but at the same time very, very sad.

Again, because of corruption, incompetence etc everything gets delayed.
Funny fact, no one is being held as responsible, director just steps down and thats it.
At this pace even my children wont see the new trains. As proud as I am about LV, at times liek these I wish that I was born estonian for example :D

CAF continues successfully fulfilling train procurement contract with Latvia


Spain's Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF) confirms that it continues successfully fulfilling its train procurement contract with Latvia's Pasazieru vilciens (PV) and resolves to continue and develop cooperation with the Latvian train manufacturing unit by involving Rigas Vagonbuves rupnica (RVR) as a subcontractor and ensuring that the new trains will be mostly manufactured in Latvia.


CAF informs that the company will ensure direct investments in Latvia, the possibility of restoring the country's train manufacturing sector and new jobs, provide technologies and issue a respective license, which will allow RVR to manufacture the new trains for the needs of PV and continue business activities in fulfilling other contracts. CAF will also ensure that RVR will be able to manufacture and sell its trains in CIS countries, ensuring the train manufacturing sector with high technological opportunities, writes LETA/Nozare.lv.

In its statement to the mass media, CAF expresses hope that the contract will be fulfilled with mutual honesty, contributing in delivering modern technologies to Riga as one of Europe's capitals.

Last week, CAF representatives met with Transport Minister Aivis Ronis, Transport Ministry and PV representatives to inform that the company has successfully started fulfilling the contract to supply the new trains according to the schedule so that they would be available in Riga in mid-2014.

The meeting was held on the initiative of CAF. The company requested the meeting to receive explanations about the recent information regarding the contract.

CAF points out that there have been various attempts to alter procurement results, lift the decision on company's right to sign the contract, suspend the procurement process and start new procurement, as well as to delay the signing of the contract so that the company would not be able to supply the trains on time. CAF emphasizes that the Procurement Monitoring Bureau and the court rejected all reviewed petitions as unjustified. The court permitted to sign the contract, therefore the procurement procedure was completed and the company successfully started fulfilling the contract.

No they will not.

->

Ronis urges officials to refrain from commenting train procurement contract ahead of talks with EC
Alla Petrova, BC, Riga, 24.05.2012.

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/transport/?doc=57722


http://bnn-news.com/minister-mandate-lobby-trains-tender-62926

Very skitsofrenic stituation. Have to follow up this matter!