Hyundai Rotem announced on June 14 that it has secured a significant contract valued at 270 billion KRW to supply and maintain distributed power high-speed vehicles for Uzbekistan Railways (UTY). This contract marks a notable achievement in the export of South Korean high-speed train technology.
The high-speed vehicles, akin to Korea’s KTX-Eum (EMU-260), are designed to reach speeds of up to 250 km/h. Six trainsets will be provided, each comprising seven cars with a seating capacity of 389. These vehicles are tailored for the Uzbek railway environment, featuring broad-gauge bogies and power units compatible with local electricity.
To meet Uzbekistan’s 200mm platform height, internal stairs will be installed. The design will ensure stable performance in high temperatures and protection against dust and sand, enhancing passenger comfort. Seating will be available in VIP, Business, and Economy classes, with a dining car for long-distance travel.
The trains will operate on 1,216 km of routes, including the Tashkent-Bukhara (590 km), Bukhara-Khiva (430 km), and Misken-Nukus (196 km) sections. This deployment is expected to significantly improve transportation efficiency and convenience for Uzbek citizens.
The project, facilitated by financial support from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) and the Export-Import Bank of Korea, highlights the collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors. A Hyundai Rotem official expressed pride in the recognition of domestic high-speed vehicle technology abroad and emphasized the company’s commitment to project completion and transportation enhancement in Uzbekistan.
Hyundai Rotem, known for its expertise in high-speed trains, has a strong reputation in the industry. The company’s collaboration with UTY, supported by the South Korean government, aims to strengthen economic ties and promote mutual development between South Korea and Uzbekistan.
The EDCF’s financial assistance has been crucial in enabling international projects like this, showcasing the importance of public-private partnerships in global economic development. As the project advances, these high-speed trains are expected to significantly improve local transportation, offering faster travel times and enhanced passenger comfort.
