Press release -
Hitachi Rail to provide technical support for the maintenance of signaling systems in Bulgaria
Hitachi Rail will provide technical assistance and expert support to Alokor EAD, for the maintenance of signaling systems along the Sofia–Plovdiv–Svilengrad railway corridor. Alokor EAD is the partner and participant in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) signed with the National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC). With this partnership, Hitachi Rail strengthens its commitment to the reliability of Bulgaria’s railway infrastructure.
Under the agreement, Hitachi Rail will ensure the supply and repair of spare parts for the majority of the signaling scope, including electronic interlockings (IXL), ETCS Level 1, Centralized Traffic Control (CTC), and field elements over a two-year period.
The SLA guarantees high reliability of the signaling systems on two of Bulgaria’s most critical railway routes, and contributes to the optimization of train traffic for both, operators and passengers. By reducing the risk of critical failures, the SLA supports long-term network reliability – enabling predictable maintenance, fewer disruptions, and ultimately, consistent service quality.
Hitachi Rail has a strong track record in Bulgaria, having equipped the Septemvri–Plovdiv and Plovdiv–Svilengrad lines – a total of approximately 200 kilometers – with 17 newly built electronic interlockings and the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 nearly a decade ago.
The current agreement focuses on maintaining the already installed base, further reinforcing the strategic importance of this corridor connecting Europe and Asia.
Manfred Zekl, Head of Branch Bulgaria, Hitachi Rail Austria, said: “Hitachi Rail has extensive experience in supporting Bulgaria’s rail infrastructure with advanced technology and reliable service. This agreement reflects our commitment to sustainability and long-term partnerships in European rail transport.”
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About Hitachi, Ltd.
Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT(Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.
About Hitachi Rail
Hitachi Rail is committed to driving the sustainable mobility transition and has a clear focus on partnering with customers to rethink mobility. Its mission is to help every passenger, customer and community enjoy the benefits of more connected, seamless and sustainable transport.
With revenues of over €7bn and 24,000 employees across more than 50 countries, Hitachi Rail is a trusted partner to the world’s best transport organisations. The company's reach is global, but the business is local - with success built on developing local talent and investing in people and communities.
Its international capabilities and expertise span every part of the urban, mainline and freight rail ecosystems – from high quality manufacturing and maintenance of rolling stock to secure digital signalling, smart operations and payment systems.
Hitachi Rail, famous for Japan's iconic high speed bullet train, draws on the digital and AI expertise of Hitachi Group companies to accelerate innovation and develop new technologies. Hitachi Group’s revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totalled €581.6 bn / ¥9,783.3 bn, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide.
Find out more by visiting hitachirail.com or our press site here.
