KTZ‘s CHARME cars undergo certification testing
updated on 5th Nov 2025 17:20 posted on 9th Oct 2025 12:59
In September 2025 began the certification of CHARME coaches built by Stadler in Astana. The initial test runs to the southern and eastern regions were successful: the new coaches covered over 10,000 km, confirming the reliability of the braking system, running characteristics, and safety features. The tests are being conducted to ensure compliance with the Technical regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 001/2011 and cover routes throughout the country. Residents of Karaganda, Taraz, Shymkent, and Oskemen might have already seen the modern trains on the tracks.
The coaches will be handed over to KTZ in December this year. Starting in 2026, the CHARME cars will operate on the following key services:
- No. 3/4 Astana - Almaty,
- No. 353/354 Astana - Semey,
- No. 85/86 Astana - Shymkent,
- No. 47/48 Astana - Atyrau.
In addition, Stadler will provide the maintenance services of these coaches for 20 years.
Currently, eight coaches are undergoing testing in Kazakhstan. Behind the locomotive can be seen a generator car, in which two diesel gensets are installed, each with a power output of 530 kW. Fuel consumption varies significantly depending on conditions such as weather and the number of coaches in the rake. At a temperature of -50 °C and with the maximum train length, the fuel consumption for a single genset reaches up to 126 liters per hour. Under softer conditions, such as -10 °C and a medium-length rake, consumption is approximately 66 liters per hour. The fuel tanks are designed to support 48 hours of operation at maximum power.
The maximum number of passenger coaches in train is 24, on acount of the platform length limitations. Depending on operational requirements, up to two generator coaches may also be added.
Each train must have a technician on board, who is an employee of Stadler Service. The work provided by the latter‘s employee is carried out under a signed contract with KTZ for 20 years of maintenance and does not require additional expenses from the client. Starting next year, the CHARME coaches will be based in Astana and Almaty.
