The "Yermaks" have arrived in the Kirov region.

      Two new freight electric locomotives of the 2ES5K series, known as "Ermak," have arrived at the Lyangasovo station. The equipment rolled off the assembly line of the Novocherkassk plant and has already undergone "testing" in the harshest conditions—from Siberian passes to the Ural foothills.

      For the Kirov region, this is an important stage of modernization. The "Ermaks" are designed to work with increased weight and length trains, which is critically important for freight routes passing through the region. But the main intrigue of the novelty lies not only in its power but also in its efficiency. Compared to the familiar veterans of the VL-80 series, the new locomotives promise to reduce electricity consumption by 2–4% due to improved traction characteristics.

      This is not the only update that has occurred in the region recently. As the press service of the GZhD reminds, just a month ago, in March 2026, four passenger counterparts—elegant EP1M—appeared in Kirov. They have already made a mark with their ability to accelerate to 140 km/h, confidently pulling trains of two dozen cars.

      The modernization strategy currently being implemented by the railway is systematic. In the Kirov region, the GZhD is changing both the passenger fleet and the freight "artillery." Replacing outdated machines with high-tech "Ermaks" and EP1Ms pursues three goals: to enhance traffic safety, reduce environmental impact (due to energy efficiency), and improve the quality of transportation.

      For Lyangasovo, which is one of the key hubs of the Gorky railway, the arrival of these two locomotives will be a significant support in operations. It is expected that the "Ermaks" will soon hit the line, where they will be tasked with hauling heavy trains, gradually replacing the equipment of the previous generation.