Iarnród Éireann Railway Undertaking, the Irish public operator, has signed a 10-year framework agreement with British manufacturer WH Davis to purchase up to 400 freight wagons to replace the nearly 50-year-old current fleet.
In addition, the new wagons will increase the load capacity by 33%, reaching between 62 and 65 tonnes per wagon. They can travel at a maximum speed of 110 km/h, 30 km/h faster than the current wagons.
The signing of the framework contract includes a first firm order for 150 wagons for 44 million euros. The first wagons are scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2026 and will enter service in 2027 after testing and approvals.
Implementing the purchase options over the next decade will be subject to financing and approval. If realised, it would generate more than 100 new weekly freight services.
This investment is part of Iarnród Éireann’s strategy to boost sustainable transport and reduce emissions by up to 70% compared to road transport, in line with national and European climate targets.