Interpipe Sets Sails for Expansion into European Passenger Wheel Market
Interpipe, a prominent Ukrainian industrial company, is set to broaden its reach in the European railway products market. While it has already secured a strong foothold in the freight wheel segment, the company is now looking to enter the passenger wheel market, a more technically demanding and competitive sector.
The company’s expansion strategy, as stated by Aleksandr Garkavyi, Director of the Railway Products Division, was revealed during the Exporters Summit 2025 organized by Forbes Ukraine. Interpipe’s current success lies in supplying freight wheels to nearly every European country, with its wheels being installed in two out of three EU freight cars. However, passenger wheels are an entirely different challenge, both in terms of technical complexity and market entry barriers.
The shift toward passenger rail products is part of Interpipe's development strategy aimed at 2032, marking a long-term vision for the company to scale up operations in the advanced wheel segment.
Navigating the Complexities of Passenger Wheels
The production of passenger wheels requires more sophisticated design and customization than freight wheels, as each passenger train has a distinct wheel design. National rail operators across Europe have their own certification standards that are often combined with broader European norms, making it challenging for manufacturers to enter the market. Moreover, gaining certification from global railcar builders such as Siemens, Alstom, and Stadler involves a lengthy and complex process.
However, Interpipe has an edge in this regard. The company has already provided high-speed train wheels to Deutsche Bahn, Germany's largest railway operator. Additionally, Interpipe’s in-house steel production gives it better control over the quality and performance of its wheels, an essential factor in ensuring durability and safety for passenger rail systems.
A Sustainable Competitive Advantage
Interpipe’s commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions and improving its carbon footprint is another factor that differentiates it from competitors. As Europe pushes toward greener transportation solutions, Interpipe’s eco-friendly practices in steel production and wheel manufacturing make it a more attractive partner for European railway companies focused on sustainability.
Current Market and Future Outlook
In 2024, Interpipe sold over 80,000 metric tons of railway products in the European market, surpassing previous records from 2021. The company’s railway division is operating at full capacity, with future growth focused on increasing its presence in the passenger wheel market.
Despite the challenges associated with the highly specialized demands of passenger rail products, Interpipe is confident in its ability to succeed in this segment. The company has assembled a team of qualified engineers and experts to tackle the technical challenges that come with the development of tailored passenger wheels.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• Interpipe, a Ukrainian company, is expanding its market presence by entering the European passenger wheel market, currently focusing on the freight wheel segment.
• Passenger wheels are more complex due to unique design requirements and varying standards across European countries.
• Interpipe has prior experience with Deutsche Bahn’s high-speed trains, giving it a competitive edge in the new sector.
• The company’s in-house steel production ensures better quality control and supports its environmental goals.
• Interpipe sold more than 80,000 metric tons of railway products in Europe in 2024, surpassing previous sales records.
• The company plans to aggressively enter the passenger segment by 2032, leveraging its technical expertise and sustainable practices.
