Talgo has filed a tender entry with PKP Intercity for a new version of its Avril high-speed trainset, in a procurement drawing interest from Europe's major rolling-stock suppliers.

The Spanish manufacturer confirmed its participation through industry publication Railway PRO. It joins the list of bidders responding to the Polish state long-distance operator's call for additional intercity rolling stock.

PKP Intercity has structured the tender around high-capacity trainsets intended for the country's expanding 250–300 km/h mainline network.

The Avril platform sits at the core of Talgo's submission. It is the variable-axle high-speed design Renfe operates in Spain under the Talgo 350 designation.

Built around a modular architecture, the trainset lets operators configure seating density, traction packages and signalling systems to match specific network conditions. Talgo has emphasised that flexibility in international bids across Europe and the Middle East.

What does the Polish tender require?

PKP Intercity's tender links to the operator's longer-running programme to enlarge its intercity fleet. Infrastructure manager PKP PLK is delivering track and signalling upgrades in parallel.

The procurement framework covers multiple-system electric trainsets with platform-level boarding and ETCS signalling integration. They are intended for service on mainline corridors now being upgraded for higher commercial speeds.

Works underway or planned include raising line speeds on the central CMK trunk and extending electrified fast-rail sections between Warsaw and the country's second-tier cities.

The operator's existing Alstom Pendolino ED250 fleet, in service since 2014, will continue to operate alongside the new units. PKP Intercity has signalled that the procurement is meant to expand capacity, not to replace the Pendolino sets.

How does the new Avril variant differ?

Talgo's bid references a new Avril version, developed to comply with Polish gauge, voltage and signalling standards.

The company markets Avril as a high-density unit capable of seating around 600 passengers in extended configuration and running at commercial speeds above 250 km/h. The specific envelope of the Polish variant forms part of the submission and will be examined during evaluation.

That envelope covers power output, traction package compatibility with 3000 V DC and 25 kV AC supplies, and braking systems qualified for high-speed mixed-traffic operation.

The new version retains the platform's independent-wheel running gear. Talgo markets that gear as a low-maintenance alternative to conventional bogies, with improved ride quality at high speeds. The design has been a feature of the manufacturer's intercity products for decades.

What is the tender's timeline?

A formal award date has not been announced by PKP Intercity. The evaluation process is expected to compare competing offers on price, lifecycle cost and technical conformity.

Talgo's entry follows the company's strategy of broadening its European order book beyond the Iberian base. The Spanish builder has historically served Spanish operators and has pursued export contracts across Europe, the Middle East and Latin America. A Polish award would mark a significant new European reference outside Spain for the high-speed platform.

How significant is this procurement for the market?

The Polish tender outcome will decide which manufacturer secures a flagship high-speed contract in one of Europe's most active rail procurement markets.

PKP Intercity's intercity ridership has grown steadily since 2014. The operator has signalled an intent to add trainsets ahead of planned infrastructure commissioning milestones tied to EU and national co-financing cycles.

Talgo's revised Avril submission will be examined during the next stage of evaluation. PKP Intercity is expected to release further procedural information on the tender process in due course. The awarding authority's final terms are likely to include industrial-participation commitments that shape where final assembly takes place.