Petropavlovsk masters production of new generation passenger cars

Kazakhstan-based RWS Wagon (ZIKSTO LLP), part of the Railways Systems KZ holding company, continues to strengthen its position as one of the leading manufacturers of passenger rolling stock in the country. With the support of the state, the company is not only completing the current year with large-scale deliveries of cars, but is also preparing for the serial production of innovative models of the “45” series.

According to the company's press service, in November alone, the plant sent another batch of 27 passenger cars of the 44 series to the national railway carrier, Passenger Transport JSC (part of KTZ JSC).

The delivery was carried out jointly with JSC Kazakhstan Industry Development Fund. During the year, the company delivered 80 cars of various types to the carrier using the same mechanism.

As a reminder, the Industry Development Fund finances projects in the manufacturing industry, production and transport infrastructure aimed at creating new jobs, increasing the output of export-oriented products, and attracting foreign and domestic investment into the domestic economy.

Thus, in 2024–2025, the national company Kazakhstan Temir Zholy received 157 units of rolling stock manufactured in Petropavlovsk. At the end of this year, RWS Wagon will launch a fundamentally new generation of passenger cars – the 45 series. 

Their serial production will begin after successful certification in accordance with EAEU TR 001⁄2011 requirements.

By the end of December, it is planned to deliver a total of 100 new series railcars to national and private carriers. In 2026, the volume will increase to 140 units, and in 2027, to 150.

The new cars have a completely redesigned structure: pneumatic suspension for a smoother ride; a corrosion-resistant body of increased length with improved noise insulation; an updated interior made of wear-resistant materials; a microclimate and air disinfection system designed for long-distance routes; convertible salons that allow daytime sofas to be turned into full-fledged sleeping places; USB and 220 V outlets at each passenger shelf, Wi-Fi, modern lighting and acoustics; new-generation bio-toilets with a closed waste treatment system; video surveillance and fire extinguishing systems; platform area lighting and scrolling text displays to keep passengers informed.

Each car is designed to accommodate 36 passengers in nine comfortable compartments, while maintaining comfort and freedom of movement. High autonomy allows it to run without refueling for up to 24 hours, which significantly expands the possibilities for long-distance routes.

Thanks to new design solutions, the two-carriage coupling with a single-tunnel body allows the train to be serviced by fewer conductors, which reduces operating costs for carriers.

RWS Wagon has already begun training Passenger Transport employees on the specifics of operating the new carriages. Practical training sessions for the first 30 specialists are being held at stations in Almaty, Pavlodar, Aktobe, Mangistau, Kyzylorda, and Astana. Upon completion of the program, they will receive the appropriate certificates.

At the same time, a unified warranty service regulation for new models is being developed. The manufacturer is systematically increasing the share of Kazakhstani components in production: domestic wheels and bearings are already in use, and the introduction of localized axles and interior elements is planned for 2026.

The Railways Systems KZ holding company, which unites enterprises in Ekibastuz and Petropavlovsk, is forming a full production cycle and contributing to the development of Kazakhstan's machine-building potential.

Systematic production and stable deliveries of new railcars will ensure the systematic renewal of the country's passenger rolling stock. Based on the results of the current year and in the coming years, RWS Wagon is becoming a key supplier of technological rolling stock capable of competing with foreign counterparts and providing passengers with comfortable and safe travel.

As noted by Meyram Pshembaev, Chairman of the Board of the Association of Kazakhstan Machinery Industry, the launch of a new series of passenger cars is the result of systematic work by domestic enterprises and effective measures of state support for the industry.

“Today, the railway engineering industry prioritizes purchases from Kazakhstani manufacturers and offers tax and investment incentives,” emphasized the industry expert. “These measures allow companies to expand production, increase localization, and implement new technological solutions. RWS Wagon clearly demonstrates that Kazakhstani products are capable of competing with foreign counterparts and providing the republic with its own modern rolling stock.”