The Railway Reform Authority (ARF) launched the first PESA regional electric train into commercial service on the Bucharest Nord – Brașov route on August 6.
PESA Train Deployment Schedule and Routes
The fleet will serve Regio and Regio-Expres trains on four primary connections: Bucharest Nord to Brașov, Bucharest Nord to Constanța, Bucharest Obor to Constanța, and Constanța to Fetești.
Specific schedules provided by CFR Călători include:
- August 6: R 3025 (Bucharest Nord 14:38 – Brașov 18:47), R 3031 (Bucharest Nord 20:23 – Brașov 23:42), and R 3032 (Brașov 19:06 – Bucharest Nord 22:46).
- August 7: R 3021 (Bucharest Nord 05:40 – Brașov 09:21), R-E 3000 (Brașov 14:09 – Bucharest Nord 16:45), R 3024 (Brașov 06:20 – Bucharest Nord 09:51), R 8011/8001 (Bucharest Nord 06:17 – Constanța 11:06), R 8010 (Constanța 14:20 – Bucharest Nord 19:28), R 8005 (Bucharest Obor 13:42 – Constanța 17:26), and R 8034 (Constanța 20:20 – Fetești 22:12).
- August 8: R 8031 (Fetești 04:24 – Constanța 05:42).
- August 10: R 8006 (Constanța 05:55 – Bucharest Obor 10:02).
Did you know? The PESA units are equipped with air conditioning, power sockets for electronic devices, passenger information systems, and dedicated spaces for bicycles and luggage, as well as facilities for persons with reduced mobility.
Investment Costs and Environmental Goals
The project, titled “Supporting the reduction of energy consumption through energy efficiency in the transport sector – Sustainable rolling stock through the acquisition of 62 RE-R regional electric trains,” has a total value of 2.778 billion lei (approximately 561.278 million euros). According to the ARF, 2.327 billion lei (470.247 million euros) comes from the Modernization Fund, with the remaining 450.448 million lei (91.031 million euros) provided by the Romanian state budget.
The ARF states that the primary objective is to support low-carbon technologies in rail transport to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By replacing existing rolling stock with these electric units, the project aims to decrease dependence on fossil fuels and encourage passengers to move from personal vehicles to trains in peri-urban areas.
Administrative Challenges and Resolution
Interim Minister of Transport Radu Miruță stated on Facebook that some of the new trains were previously sitting idle at the Obor station after being received by the state. Miruță claimed that he was told the trains could not be put into circulation, but he resolved the issue by withholding payments from the company that failed to complete its work and bringing responsible parties to the table.
Miruță acknowledged that the Romanian railway system has suffered from years of inaction and poor decisions, stating that “responsibility, courage, and work” are required to repair the network.
Pro Tip: When booking regional trips between Bucharest and Constanța or Brașov, check for the “Regio” or “Regio-Expres” designation to see if you are eligible for these modernized PESA units.
Comparison: Project Scope vs. Initial Rollout
| Category | Initial August Rollout | Total Project Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Trains | 5 units | 62 units |
| Primary Focus | Bucharest – Brașov / Constanța | National regional/suburban network |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for the maintenance of the PESA trains?
According to CFR Călători, maintenance is provided by the manufacturer, PESA, based on a contract signed with the ARF.
How is the project funded?
The project is financed through the EU Modernization Fund (non-reimbursable funds) and co-financed by the Romanian state budget.
What is the total budget for the 62 trains?
The total value of the project is 2.778 billion lei, or approximately 561.278 million euros.
Do you think these new trains will encourage you to leave the car at home? Share your experience with the new PESA units in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more transport updates.