Pesa Acatus Plus
Pesa Acatus Plus: A New Era in Electric Multiple Units
The Pesa Acatus Plus is a family of electric multiple units (EMUs) that have been manufactured by Pesa, a prominent company based in Bydgoszcz, Poland. Launched as a more advanced version of the Pesa Acatus II, the Acatus Plus is designed to be a cost-effective alternative to the earlier Pesa Elf model. Since its introduction, it has been operated primarily by Polregio and Koleje Małopolskie, with a total production of 13 units, which includes nine 3-car units and four 2-car units. This article will delve into the history, development, design features, operational use, and variants of the Pesa Acatus Plus.
History of the Pesa Acatus Plus
In the competitive landscape of train manufacturing, Pesa initially introduced the Pesa Elf model. Despite its innovative features, the Elf struggled to secure contracts due to competitors offering lower-cost options. To counteract this challenge, Pesa developed the Acatus Plus as a new family of EMUs that balanced affordability with performance requirements specific to regional operators. The Elf model remains available for international orders with stricter specifications.
Development Timeline
The journey for the Acatus Plus began with a series of contracts awarded to Pesa. On September 4, 2013, the Subcarpathian Voivodeship signed a contract for two 40WE EMUs. Shortly after, on October 18, 2013, another contract was inked for six 40WEa and four 41WE EMUs destined for the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. Finally, on August 25, 2015, an additional contract was secured for one 40WE EMU for the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. These contracts marked significant milestones in expanding regional rail services across Poland.
Design Features
The Acatus Plus is engineered specifically for regional and commuter rail services and is available in configurations ranging from two to six cars. However, only 2-car (type 41WE) and 3-car (type 40WE) versions have been constructed; a planned 4-car version (type 42WE) was designated but ultimately not built.
Technical Specifications
This family of EMUs is based on the preceding Acatus II model but includes notable advancements in propulsion and running gear systems. The Acatus Plus complies with Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI) Lok&Pas crashworthiness standards—a crucial aspect for modern rail systems. The units are equipped with a new series of bogies: powered bogies (27MN) and unpowered bogies (42AN), designed with reduced axle spacings of 2,700 mm and 2,600 mm respectively.
The powered bogies come equipped with VEM motors paired with Gmeinder gearboxes, while unpowered bogies utilize pneumatic springs to support the body effectively. Passenger comfort was also a consideration during design; the floor height at door areas is set at 760 mm above rail level. High-floor sections situated above powered bogies are accessible via steps, providing an effective solution for boarding from lower platforms.
Future Developments
Looking ahead to early 2025, Koleje Małopolskie announced plans to issue a tender for periodic maintenance and modernization of four EN64 units. This modernization will include installing European Train Control System (ETCS) cab signaling technology to enhance operational safety and efficiency.
Operational Use Across Regions
The Acatus Plus units have been deployed in various regions across Poland, each serving essential commuter routes that connect cities and rural areas alike.
Subcarpathian Voivodeship Operations
The contract signed on September 4, 2013, resulted in the delivery of two 3-car EMUs to the Subcarpathian Voivodeship by late November of that year. These units commenced service along the Rzeszów Główny–Przemyśl Główny route shortly after their delivery.
Lesser Poland Voivodeship Operations
A significant order came from the Lesser Poland Voivodeship on October 18, 2013. The delivery included six 3-car and four 2-car Acatus Plus units designated for operations on the Kraków Agglomeration Railway. The first two units were delivered by November 2014 and were officially presented at Kraków Główny railway station alongside other models from different manufacturers.
The deployment saw these units operating on various lines including Krzeszowice–Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia line. Following this initial deployment phase, additional units were gradually introduced into service throughout early 2015.
Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship Operations
On August 25, 2015, another contract was finalized for one unit in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. Although initially delayed past its expected delivery date in February 2016 due to various technical issues, acceptance testing began in April of that year. The unit was finally delivered by early May and officially handed over at Skarżysko-Kamienna railway station on May 10.
Conclusion
The Pesa Acatus Plus represents an important development in Poland’s electric multiple unit offerings. By blending modern technology with cost-effective solutions tailored for regional operators, it addresses pressing needs within Poland’s public transportation system while enhancing connectivity across various regions. Its deployment across multiple voivodeships demonstrates its versatility and adaptability in serving both urban and rural transit needs efficiently. As further enhancements are planned into future operations, such as ETCS signaling installation, the Acatus Plus is poised to play a significant role in shaping Poland’s rail transport landscape for years to come.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).