Egypt signs $235mln contracts with US’s PRL to modernize 100 locomotives.
Egypt’s National Railways Authority signs three contracts with American company Progress Rail (PRL) to modernize 100 Henschel locomotives, supply spare parts for 141 units over 15 years, and provide technical support for 10 years, as per a statement.
As part of a $235 million agreement witnessed by US Ambassador to Cairo Herro Mustafa Garg, the deal falls under Egypt’s wider plan to upgrade its railway fleet and improve service quality for passengers and freight clients.
The project is also expected to boost the availability and reliability of locomotives while cutting fuel consumption and emissions. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir said the contracts align with the Ministry’s strategy to enhance the traction system and expand the share of freight transported by rail, helping ease pressure on road networks and increase railway revenues.
The modernization program will see the installation of all-new locomotive components, including a new engine, EM2000 control system, electrical cabinet, air compressor, air brake system, and cooling system. Remaining major components will be overhauled using newly supplied spare parts.
El-Wazir highlighted the operational benefits of the upgrades, noting a 50% cut in oil consumption and over 3% improvement in fuel efficiency, driven by new engine technology.
Source: Zawya
