Ukrzaliznytsia has signed a contract with PJSC Kryukiv Carriage Works for the supply of 10 next-generation passenger carriages. The contract value is 1,091,280,000 UAH including VAT, with delivery due by the end of 2029. The key difference between the new carriages and previous series is the enlarged "Gabarit T" (clearance profile), which will allow the sleeping berths to be significantly lengthened and improve passenger comfort on long-distance journeys. Two of the ten units are designed to carry passengers in wheelchairs, expanding the accessibility of rail transport for people with disabilities.
What is the "Gabarit T" and why does it matter
The "Gabarit T" is the regulatory profile of the free space inside a carriage, defining the maximum dimensions of sleeping berths, the width of aisles, and the layout of interior elements. Moving to a wider "Gabarit T" means that the sleeping berths in the new carriages will be noticeably longer than in existing models. For passengers, this translates into more comfortable accommodation, especially on night and intercity routes lasting more than six hours. Ukrzaliznytsia emphasises that the updated technical parameters offer a range of practical advantages: from more spacious luggage storage to improved ergonomics of the compartments.
A record 102 carriages in one year
The new contract for 10 carriages is part of a large-scale fleet renewal programme: in total, in 2026 Ukrzaliznytsia contracted a record 102 passenger carriages. Just last month the company signed a separate contract for the supply of 92 Ukrainian-made carriages, and the current deal for 10 next-generation units brought the annual figure to a historic high. The gradual transition to ordering next-generation carriages began in 2025 with a "pilot" batch of five units. All purchases are funded from the State Budget of Ukraine.
Production and the supplier chain
More than 100 Ukrainian supplier companies will be involved in producing the new carriages. This means that the 1.09-billion-UAH contract is distributed across a wide network of domestic component manufacturers, creating a multiplier effect for the industrial sector. Kryukiv Carriage Works, as the lead enterprise, coordinates assembly and equipment integration, while suppliers handle the manufacture of elements ranging from seats to ventilation and electrical systems.
Context: war, shortages and systematic replacement
Ukrzaliznytsia explains that replenishing the fleet is critical: ageing carriages are being phased out, and some have been destroyed as a result of enemy attacks on railway infrastructure. Without systematic replacement, the country faces a worsening ticket shortage and the loss of rail connectivity for millions of passengers. Since 2021, under the state programme, Ukrzaliznytsia has contracted 368 passenger carriages. Regular updates make it possible to keep the country's logistics running in wartime conditions, when infrastructure is constantly under threat.
Digitalisation and passenger services
In parallel with renewing the carriage fleet, the company is expanding its digital services. The company's official app has been installed by 7 million Ukrainians, and more than 70% of all travel documents are purchased through this online service. Stations across the country offer free Wi-Fi, lounge zones and rest rooms, 24-hour zones for military personnel, and dedicated rooms for mothers with children. In Kharkiv, a unique special lounge, the "Kharkiv Reading Room," was opened. In addition, extra carriages have been added to international routes to improve passenger comfort during prolonged border stops, which is especially relevant for families with young children.
