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Leo Express Receives First Sirius EMU from CRRC
CRRC has exported its first electric multiple unit (EMU) – called Sirius – to the European Union. The EMU arrived in the Czech Republic in September. It travelled more than 20,000 kilometres by sea to reach its final destination.
CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co., Ltd signed a contract with private rail operator Leo Express for three EMUs in December 2016. The contract includes an option for an additional 30 units. The total contract value lies at 5 billion CZK (190 million euros 210 million USD).
Sirius EMU Features
Sirius is able to run at a top speed of 160km/h. It is able to operate in several European countries because it can accommodate both AC (25kV) and DC (3000V) voltages.
It is made out of light-weight aluminium. This makes it both cheaper to run and more energy-efficient, benefitting the environment.
At 600mm from the track it is low-floor, which makes it easier for passengers to board and disembark. Following customer surveys Leo Express made sure the design included more space for luggage, skis and bicycles.
CRRC says that “as a high-end market for global rail transit equipment {the} EU has strict demands and access standards for train quality and reliability. [...] {Entering the EU market} marks the recognition of China's high-end equipment manufacturing brands in the international market.”
Czech Design and Production
20 percent of the parts in the Sirius EMU have come from the Czech Republic. Czech design studios also participated in the design process with CRRC. Furthermore, the entire safety system has come from the Czech Republic.
Leo Express will begin operating regional lines in the Pardubice and Zlín regions in December. It will use Alstom Coradia Lint units for this. Leo Express is also interested in new regional trains for the Olomouc region and for Prague. Finally, it is interested in providing regional transport services in Slovakia.
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