The Baku Metro plans to purchase 120 new train cars as part of its ongoing modernization program, shifting away from its previous Russian supplier “Metrovagonmash.”
In an interview with Oxu.Az, Aydın Bekirov, Chief Engineer of the Metro’s Depot Department, said that negotiations are currently underway with several leading international manufacturers, including Škoda (Czech Republic), Stadler (Switzerland), and a state-owned company from China.
.
“Talks are being held with foreign companies, and once negotiations are finalized, an agreement will be signed with one of them for the delivery of 120 new cars,” Bekirov explained.
He noted that while the Baku Metro has previously cooperated with Metrovagonmash, the management is now seeking new strategic partners.
“A delegation from the Baku Metro is currently abroad conducting negotiations. Following the discussions, a contract will be signed with the selected company,” he said, adding that the goal is to bring the total number of new cars in service to 300 by 2030.
At present, the metro operates 36 trains (180 cars) purchased from the Russian manufacturer. However, the new procurement marks a major step toward international diversification in the city’s public transport infrastructure.
Bekirov also revealed that 30 cars will be decommissioned next year due to expired service life.
“By early next year, 30 cars will be withdrawn from service and sent for disposal,” he said, noting that five cars were retired in 2024, eight in 2023, and ten in 2022 for the same reason.
The initiative reflects Baku Metro’s broader modernization efforts, aimed at improving passenger comfort, safety, and energy efficiency across its rapidly expanding network.
