Novelty 2026: In the mid-1950s, when powerful diesel locomotives for shunting duties were lacking in Poland, the Polskie Koleje Pa?stwowe (Polish State Railways) opted for proven Hungarian technology: the M44 series locomotives. At a time when Polish diesel traction was still being developed and many depots operated with outdated steam shunting locomotives, the robust M44 offered a practical and relatively quickly available solution. After successful tests in 1957, conducted at the shunting yards Warszawa Odolany and Pozna? Franowo, ten machines were purchased in 1958 and put into service as PKP SM40-01 to 10. These first M44s for Poland largely corresponded to the Hungarian base version but were already equipped with Polish safety and radio systems. Their areas of operation ranged from major hubs such as Warszawa, Gda?sk, and Wroc?aw to regional freight yards and industrial plants. The locomotives were considered reliable, strong-pulling, and easy to maintain – qualities that made them popular both in contemporary depots and on industrial railways of metallurgical and chemical works. Some examples have been preserved as historical witnesses – including SM40-01 at the Skansen Taboru Kolejowego Chabówka. It represents an Era when Polish stations and shunting tracks were characterized by the distinctive sound and striking silhouette of these machines.

Version with ribbed body | Illuminated control panel | In digital operation with switchable cab lighting | Fitted sandboxes, sand pipes, and brake shoes | Additional tank, air conditioning unit, speedometer, and horn | Fine handrails and steps | MAV-style exhaust | PKP antenna | PSD XP Sound decoder with authentic sound and many functions pre-ins

Features

EAN	4015615523895
Sound yes/no	yes
Type of current	AC
Railway administration	PKP
Era	IV
Kind of measurement	LOB / length over buffers
Measurement	130
Minimum radius	358
Digital interface	NEM 658 PluX22
Built-in decoder	PluX22 sound decoder
Interior Lighting / Lights	Digitally switchable cab lighting (with PluX22 Decoder)
Number of Traction Tyres	2
Coupling	NEM pocket + close coupler mechanism
Sound	PIKO sound decoder fitted at the factory
Directional lights	Directional light change white / red
Age recommendation	from 14 years