OREANDA-NEWS. On September 09, 2008 The Tver Carriage Works (TVZ) has launched technical preparations for production of passenger coaches for fixed formation trains, reported the press-centre of TVZ.

In early 2009, the enterprise will build prototypes of compartment (model 61-4462) and staff (model 61-4463) cars, then a dining car will follow (61-4464). As early as the first quarter of 2009, new products will start tests, and from 100 to 200 new rail cars will have been manufactured in Tver by the end of next year.

The new rail cars for fixed formation trains will feature airproof gangways manufactured by HUBNER, Germany, and lash-free couplers. The technical solutions will provide more comfort to passengers: airproof gangways will save them from dust and water if they need to move along the train, and decrease the level of noise inside the cars, while lash-free couplers will drastically cut the train vibration.

The fixed formation trains will have a centralized power supply scheme (from the locomotive) through high-voltage static converters, which simplifies car maintenance by omitting generators located under cars. The first rail cars with a centralized power supply scheme were built for the Nevsky Express train in 2001, and then for Krasnaya Strela and Stolichny Express. The scheme proved reliable and efficient.

The specific design solution will make the fixed formation trains compatible exclusively with new types of rail cars.

These cars are expected to be first used for high-speed trains of the Russian Railways.

TVZ will continue the production of other types of Rolling Stock for RZD, as well as the new cars for fixed formation trains. The enterprise is expected to manufacture overall 1,200 cars off all types in 2009.