SIM Factor, Poland’s leading manufacturer of railway simulators, has won the tender organized by the Romanian state railway operator to supply two ETCS-equipped locomotive simulators. The contract, valued at approximately 6.2 million PLN net, was awarded by the National Railway Passenger Transport Company, CFR Călători.
The multifunctional simulators are designed to support the certification, training, and evaluation of locomotive and railcar engineers. Equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS), these advanced systems will enhance professional development and operational safety across Romania’s railway network.
The Romanian ETCS simulators will offer a comprehensive range of features designed to foster the training and professional development of locomotive and railcar engineers. These advanced systems enable trainees to operate controls for train driving and maneuvering, providing a realistic environment to practice essential skills required for safe and efficient railway operations. Train drivers will also be able to perform all operational tasks associated with train movement or shunting, ensuring they are fully prepared to handle the complexities of real-world scenarios.
In addition, the simulators will allow for the simulation of locomotive equipment failures, giving trainees, as well as more experienced train drivers, the opportunity to troubleshoot issues and develop effective problem-solving strategies during operation. This capability is crucial for preparing train drivers to respond effectively and timely to unexpected situations that may arise on the railway. Furthermore, the systems support activities related to maintenance, inspection, and preparation of locomotives for service, ensuring that the crew members are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to keep trains in optimal working condition.
By integrating these features into a single multifunctional platform, the ETCS simulators will provide a robust training solution for the Romanian train drivers. Once delivered, the simulators will allow them to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering and maintaining a high level of competency and professionalism among railway personnel.
“By winning our first bid in Romania, we are expanding our presence beyond Poland and move one step closer to secure our position as a leader in railway simulators within the CEE region. This achievement marks a strong start to 2025, with record results in Q1, including over 3 million gross PLN secured in signed contracts and 8.2 million net PLN in successful bids.”, said Michał Wierzbicki, CEO of SIM Factor.
“Our simulators are tailored for training facilities that strive to uphold the highest professional standards while adapting to evolving industry demands. SIM Factor’s ETCS-equipped simulators enable proper operational practices and correct errors before they can occur in real world, thus enhancing safety and interoperability. All of the above is possible under critical and stressful conditions that are difficult to replicate through traditional training methods.”, added Michał.
Winning the bid for the Romanian state railway operator underscores SIM Factor’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge simulation technology that meets the highest standards of realism and functionality, ensuring safer and more efficient railway operations across Europe.