Softronic delivers the first modernized locomotive through PNRR.

We have taken an essential step in modernizing railway transport in Romania: the first locomotive modernized by the Softronic team, financed through PNRR, has been completed and delivered to CFR Călători. This achievement honors us and marks the beginning of an ambitious project to completely recondition 19 electric locomotives and transform them into modern, efficient, and sustainable equipment.

Railway modernization – a clear direction for the future

The modernization contract was signed at the end of 2023 and the funds are provided through PNRR. The objective is clear: to bring back into circulation 19 electric locomotives, originally produced at Electroputere Craiova, but fully adapted to current performance, digitalization, and energy efficiency standards.

The modernization directly contributes to reducing emissions, increasing traffic safety, and improving the quality of railway services. We have taken on this project with confidence, knowing that through our expertise we can deliver high-performance equipment, compatible with European standards.

What does the modernization of the locomotives involve?

Each locomotive is almost entirely rebuilt. Only the chassis is kept, which is completely reconditioned, and all other components are replaced with state-of-the-art equipment. We have integrated asynchronous motors, modern control systems, digital equipment, and a new driver’s cab, following TSI (Technical Specifications for Interoperability) requirements.

Through these interventions, the locomotives achieve superior performance in terms of traction, reliability, and operator comfort. Each locomotive is equipped with a reactive braking system, real-time diagnostic equipment, and can run at speeds of up to 160 km/h.

Anghel Saligny – the first completed locomotive

The first locomotive delivered within this project proudly bears the name “Anghel Saligny,” the visionary engineer who laid the foundation of modern infrastructure in Romania. The locomotive successfully passed all tests and was certified by ONFR-AFER, according to national and European standards.

For us, this project means more than technology – it is also a form of recognition for the values and personalities who built Romania.

Locomotives with personality: a tribute to great historical figures

We chose that each locomotive modernized under this contract will bear the name of an emblematic figure from our history. Each of these names tells a story:

• Constantin Brâncuși, the sculptor who redefined modern art
• Smaranda Brăescu, the first Romanian woman parachutist to hold a license
• Queen Marie, a symbol of courage and diplomacy
• Nicolae Iorga, historian, politician, and great educator
• Anghel Saligny, pioneering engineer of bridges and railways

We believe that this way we give a unique identity to each locomotive, turning a simple means of transport into a symbol of national value.

What this project means to us

The modernization of these locomotives is not just a contract, but a declaration of vision. At Softronic, we strongly believe in the future of electric mobility, sustainable infrastructure, and the power of local innovation. We are proud to contribute actively to the development of railway transport in Romania and that, through our work, we offer a concrete solution for a safer, cleaner, and more efficient railway network.

And yes – we are proud that “Anghel Saligny” is now on the move. More will follow.