EP09 — Poland’s High-Speed Electric Express Locomotive
The EP09 emerged in the late 1980s as Poland’s first purpose-built 160 km/h electric locomotive for passenger service. Designed and manufactured by Pafawag in Wrocław, the EP09 family revitalized PKP’s express fleet, marrying aerodynamic styling with reliable DC traction technology to serve the country’s busiest routes for decades.
Purpose-Built for Speed and Comfort
Where earlier classes were adapted from freight or mixed-traffic designs, the EP09 was engineered from the ground up for high-speed passenger duty on the Polish 3 kV DC network. Its gently sloping nose, recessed windscreen, and smooth roofline reduced air resistance at top speed, while fully suspended bogies and secondary air suspension delivered a stable, comfortable ride—even at 160 km/h. Twin 1,600 kW traction motors, controlled by chopper electronics, provided brisk acceleration and the muscle to haul 12-coach InterCity sets without strain.
Modular Design, Lasting Reliability
Built in several batches between 1986 and 1997, each EP09 batch incorporated incremental upgrades—from improved insulation materials to refined electronics—yet all retained a core Bo-Bo wheel arrangement and modular component bays. The ease of parts replacement and diagnosis made mid-life overhauls straightforward, keeping maintenance costs down and availability high. Regenerative braking returned power to the grid on downgrades, further enhancing efficiency on long intercity runs.
Backbone of Poland’s Express Network
Assigned primarily to Warsaw, Kraków, and Poznań depots, EP09s quickly became the face of PKP InterCity’s premier services. Whether linking the capital to the Baltic coast, the Tatra foothills, or the industrial southwest, these locomotives established a reputation for punctuality and smooth performance. Multiple-unit capability allowed pairing two units for heavy or mountainous consists, extending their operational versatility well into the 21st century.
A Symbol of Polish Rail Innovation
Though newer high-speed electric and diesel locomotives have since joined the roster, the EP09 endures as a hallmark of late-Cold War Polish engineering. Its blend of aerodynamic elegance, rugged electronics, and ease of service set a standard for subsequent Pafawag—and later Newag—designs. For many rail enthusiasts, the EP09 remains an icon of national pride on rails.
Wear the EP09 Spirit: Exclusive T-Shirt Collection
Capture the streamlined power of the EP09 with our original T-shirt lineup. Each design features hand-drawn artwork emphasizing the locomotive’s graceful nose and distinctive roof profile, printed on premium, breathable cotton with a gently broken-in feel. Perfect for railfans, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates Polish industrial heritage—these tees let you carry a piece of high-speed legend wherever your journey takes you.
All aboard style—explore our EP09 collection today!
