Hybrid train 15Ev3 by Škoda Group in Příbor. Source: Miroslav Puchalter/X
Yashchenko Olga, Editorial Contributor to International Projects, ROLLINGSTOCK Agency
Czeck Republic: The national operator ČD and the private Leo Express have issued framework tenders for the purchase of up to 161 hybrid trainsets.
ČD’s tender is split into two lots, with one for the delivery of 80 BEMU135 trains with 140 seats and the other for up to 40 BEMU130 trains with 121 seats. The vehicles must be partially low-floor and operate at a maximum speed of 160 km/h on 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC lines, while accelerating up to 120 km/h in battery mode.
The national operator has also announced that it will place firm orders for seven BEMU130s and six BEMU135s. The value of the procurement is not disclosed. Further call-offs are expected according to the needs of particular regions.
Leo Express has likewise published a tender for the delivery of up to 41 hybrid trains, including a guaranteed order for 11 vehicles. The framework contract is approximately valued at CZK 7.9 bln (€324.7 mln). A fleet of BEMUs with a passenger capacity between 120 and 150 people is due to be supplied by 2029.
It is worth noting that the two-car 15Ev3 trains from the local producer Škoda Group meet the requirements of both operators. In late 2024, the first four such BEMUs entered operation in Czechia, with the remaining 15 trains from that order planned for launch by the end of this year.
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