photo: Škoda Group / Public domain/A total of 20 units will be delivered to Bulgaria by Škoda group
Soon, Bulgarians will travel in state-of-the-art trains as Škoda Group prepares to deliver up to 25 new barrier-free train sets, replacing the old ones. These new trains offer comfortable seating, air conditioning, and quiet rides. The entire contract, which includes the option for an additional five trains, is valued at nearly EUR 520 million.
Passengers in Bulgaria can look forward to a revolution in train travel. Škoda Group has secured a contract to supply up to 25 modern barrier-free electric train sets, replacing outdated rolling stock and offering more than 300 comfortable seats. The new trains will be air-conditioned and ensure smooth, low-noise travel. The initial agreement covers the delivery of 20 four-car RegioPanter units and includes a 15-year service plan. The contract also provides an option to supply an additional five units. The total contract value, including the option, amounts to nearly EUR 520 million.
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"It is with great pleasure that we take this significant step toward renewing Bulgarian railways with today's signing of this contract. I would love to thank the Ministry of Transport and Communications team, whose efforts have made this contract a reality. I wish the representatives of the supplier success, integrity, and adherence to the delivery schedule. I sincerely hope that soon we will be welcoming more orders for new rail vehicles and equipment financed under the National Recovery and Sustainability Plan," said Krasimira Stoyanova, Minister of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Bulgaria.
"Our experience in manufacturing electric units allows us to deliver a proven solution that has already found its way to several European countries. Nearly 400 of our modern electric units will soon be operating across Europe," said Petr Novotný, CEO and Executive Chairman of Škoda Group. "Securing this contract confirms that our products can compete on an international scale and strengthens our position in the modernization of European rail transport. Bulgaria joins the list of countries where our trains contribute to the attractiveness and accessibility of rail travel."
Innovation and Proven Quality for Bulgarian Railways
Škoda’s modern electric units offer exceptional performance and reliability. The trains will reach a maximum speed of 160 km/h and are designed for operation on tracks with 25 kV AC 50 Hz electrification. Passengers will enjoy ergonomic seating, air-conditioned interiors, and onboard Wi-Fi. Advanced external and internal camera systems will enhance security. The trains will also feature a partially low-floor design, ensuring full accessibility for all passengers. To facilitate quick, safe, and comfortable boarding, the train sets will have low-floor access and doors 1,500 mm wide. The train sets will also include multifunctional spaces for disabled passengers, strollers, and bicycles.
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The new trains will also incorporate Škoda’s advanced digital technologies, enhancing passengers' reliability and safety. The units will be equipped with the ETCS Level 2 system, ensuring the highest security standards according to European norms.
Modernizing Rail Transport in Bulgaria
The new fleet of electric units will significantly modernize Bulgarian railways. The current fleet, which includes older Škoda locomotives, will be replaced by vehicles that meet TSI specifications and all current European standards. These new trains will bring significant operational cost savings through advanced technologies and lower energy consumption.
The barrier-free RegioPanter electric units are a popular and proven model from the Škoda Group. They are currently in operation in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Latvia, with the latest deliveries also going to Estonia, where they have already begun trial operations. These units offer customers an optimal solution for modernizing rolling stock in suburban, regional, and interregional transport. In total, more than 300 of these units have been produced or ordered.
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Source: Škoda Group Press Releases