photo: RAILTARGET/Battery train
The future of Czech rail travel is here: quieter, greener, and smarter. Škoda’s first battery-powered train hits the tracks, replacing outdated diesel units and transforming regional journeys.
On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the first Czech battery-powered train, RegioPanter, was officially launched at Ostrava-Střed station. Developed by Škoda Group, the train joins the fleet of Czech Railways (České dráhy) to replace aging diesel units on non-electrified routes in the Moravia-Silesia region.
"Modernization and greener transport are top priorities for the Moravia-Silesia region. Introducing battery-powered trains was a key condition in our ten-year public transport agreement. These trains not only help the environment but also ensure smoother and more efficient travel," said Josef Bělica, Governor of the Moravia-Silesia region.
Škoda Group’s Battery-Powered RegioPanter
The new battery-powered RegioPanter is a result of Škoda Group’s innovation, designed to align with Czech Railways’ goals of reducing emissions and phasing out diesel trains. Equipped with batteries, the train can travel up to 80 kilometers on non-electrified routes, seamlessly bridging gaps where transfers to diesel trains were once necessary.
The batteries recharge in three ways: while running on electrified lines, through regenerative braking, and via direct charging at terminal stations. The train can reach up to 160 km/h under electric power and 120 km/h in battery mode. It has a seating capacity of 140 passengers with a total capacity of 323 travelers.
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"Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride with modern amenities: low-floor boarding, spacious doors, areas for wheelchairs, strollers, and bicycles, along with Wi-Fi and charging ports for small electronics," explained Tomáš Ignačák, Vice-Chairman of the Board at Škoda Group.
Where Will the Battery Trains Operate?
The first four units will begin operation on December 15, 2024, on the Veřovice–Ostrava S8 line, connecting Studénka and Štramberk. This line combines electrified and non-electrified sections, making it ideal for showcasing the new hybrid technology.
By the end of 2026, an additional 15 battery-powered units will be deployed across key routes, including:
- Ostrava–Opava–Krnov,
- Ostrava–Nový Jičín,
- Ostrava–Budišov nad Budišovkou,
- Ostrava’s circular connections with Karviná, Český Těšín, and Frýdek-Místek.
"I believe these comfortable and eco-friendly trains will encourage more people to choose rail travel in our region," added Radek Podstawka, Deputy Governor for Transport in Moravia-Silesia.
Ten-Year Contract and Investment Challenges
The road to deploying battery trains was not without challenges. In March 2023, the Moravia-Silesia region signed a ten-year contract with Czech Railways to ensure regional rail services. Valued at 16 billion CZK, the deal was awarded through direct procurement rather than a public tender, according to reports from iDnes.
A major requirement of the contract was the introduction of battery-powered trains. Each unit costs EUR 6.7 million, a rise from the earlier price of EUR 6 million when Czech Railways initially modified an order for electric trains.
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"We deeply value the trust placed in us by the Moravia-Silesia region, formalized through last year’s ten-year agreement for the Ostrava network. Fleet renewal in northern Moravia began last year with new RegioPanter electric units. Today marks a historic milestone as we deploy the first four battery-powered trains, with 15 more to follow. Rail, as the most ecological form of public transport, is experiencing a groundbreaking transformation in the Czech Republic," stated Michal Krapinec, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Czech Railways.
Source: RAILTARGET; iDnes; e15; České dráhy