Alstom's freight locomotives Prima KZ8A have reached 10 million kilometres on the Kazakhstan's rail network. 31 locos are currently in commercial operation from Tobol to Ekibastuz, and Presnogorkovsk to Chu respectively.

The Prima KZ8A is a two-section Alternating Current freight locomotive capable of towing up to 9000 tons and running at 120 km/h. This model is currently one of the most powerful in the world (8800 kW). Developed on the basis of KTZ (Kazakhstan Railways) technical requirements and in compliance with GOST [1] standards and specifications, the locomotive has a cutting edge traction system based on Alstom's technology and components produced by Alstom and Transmashholding. Prima KZ8A is designed to operate in temperatures from -50C to +50C. Thanks to its modular design it provides a high reliability level and low lifecycle cost.

'We are happy to have provided our client with a high-tech product labelled 'Made in Kazakhstan'. By reaching 10 million kilometres on the Kazakhstan's rail network, the Prima KZ8A proved its reliability and perfect fit for our customer's needs. Alstom is proud to contribute, thanks to its global expertise and experience, to supporting the country's ambition of becoming the hub of future transport corridors between Asia and Europe.' said Bernard Peille, Managing Director Alstom Kazakhstan.

The production of the locomotive is localized at the EKZ plant in Astana, jointly owned by KTZ (50%), Alstom (25%) and Transmashholding (25%). EKZ, as maintainer of the fleet, with the support of Alstom expertise, has secured a 95% availability of the locomotives. Regular maintenance is conducted in Astana and Agadyr depots.

With 14,000 km of track, the Kazakh railway network is the world's third biggest network using the 1,520 mm track gauge and represents a substantial market for signalling equipment as well as maintenance activities.

About Prima
The Prima range is covering all market segments of locomotives from heavy-haul (mostly in China, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan), freight and passenger operation (Europe, Africa, Middle East, CIS) and shunting or trackworks operation (Europe). The Prima brand stands for innovative traction solutions, including electric or diesel-electric traction systems, as well as hybrid or bi-mode systems.