Montenegrin railway companies are exploring the modernization of their rolling stock, as discussed in a meeting with representatives from the Romanian company SC Reloc S.A. Craiova.
The meeting was attended by officials from Željeznički prevoz Crne Gore, Montecargo, the Ministry of Transport of Montenegro, and Railways of Republika Srpska. The discussion focused on the potential renewal of the fleet and the modernization of the Class 461 electric locomotives. SC Reloc S.A. presented upgraded Class 461 locomotives with improved performance and higher energy efficiency, already in use in Romania, suitable for both passenger and freight transport.
Key benefits of the upgraded locomotives include increased traction force (up to 400 kN), higher power from 5,100 kW to 6,000 kW, up to 30% energy savings, and 98% operational availability.
Participants exchanged experiences and discussed technical and financial aspects of modernizing locomotives and wagons, including maintenance and employee training. Representatives from ŽRS, Montecargo, and ŽPCG emphasized the need for higher-powered locomotives and expressed interest in cost estimates and long-term maintenance options.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to consider project implementation, including a planned visit to SC Reloc S.A. facilities in Romania for a trial run of the modernized Class 461 locomotive.
Future discussions with SC Reloc S.A. will cover the refurbishment and modernization of passenger and freight wagons, as well as the construction of new wagons. The Ministry of Transport, in coordination with passenger (ŽPCG AD) and freight (AD Montecargo) operators, will review the proposed initiatives and required resources, while establishing a strategy and roadmap for further action.
