VR opens Wheel Works wheelset maintenance centre in Pieksämäki

VR has put into operation a new wheelset maintenance centre, Wheel Works, with a modern wheelset lathe in Pieksämäki; Finland now has two such lathes instead of one, which VR says closes a critical gap in security of supply. The new lathe can also machine wheelsets for European standard gauge (1,435 mm), and the centre also makes wheelsets for new wagons and supports wagon building at the site. Large orders under way at the Pieksämäki works include heavy-duty wagons for the Swedish and Norwegian armed forces and roundwood wagons for UPM, and the overhaul of Dosto bogies (ER1) for a Swedish customer starts later this year; the report gives no investment sum. The date is the day of the report; the article does not name the day of commissioning. (LOK Report, 15 May 2026) Update (15 May 2026): VR has put its wheelset maintenance centre in Pieksämäki, including a new wheel lathe, into operation. (LOK Report, 15 May 2026)