An increasing number of operators and public transport authorities across Europe are turning their attention to battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) as an alternative to conventional diesel traction. The Czech Republic is no exception. Almost all regional authorities responsible for ordering regional rail services have already declared their intention to deploy hybrid battery trains on selected routes in the coming years. This strategic shift reflects both environmental ambitions and the practical need to decarbonise non-electrified lines without costly infrastructure investments.
Being prepared brings a competitive advantage
České dráhy have long demonstrated that early preparation and framework tenders can provide a decisive advantage. This approach proved successful during previous diesel multiple-unit competitions, where the operator was able to offer already-tendered PESA units and subsequently place firm production orders once operating contracts were secured.
A similar strategy is now being applied to BEMU procurement. Importantly, České dráhy are not alone in this move. Private operator Leo Express has launched a comparable tender.
České dráhy seek two BEMU variants
The national operator has announced two separate tenders in the Czech public procurement register:
- 1st tender: 80 BEMU 135 units
- 2nd tender: 40 BEMU 130 units
In both cases, the trains must be dual-system units capable of 160 km/h under overhead power and 120 km/h in battery mode. Deliveries are to include spare parts and a full-service maintenance package.
The key difference lies in passenger capacity. The larger variant must accommodate at least 140 seated passengers, while the smaller version requires a minimum of 121 seats, with door layouts reflecting the capacity difference.
Evaluation criteria will consist of price (70%), energy consumption (15%), and delivery schedule (15%). České dráhy also require the flexibility to order any number of units within the framework agreement.
Leo Express also targets hybrid trains
Leo Express has issued a similar procurement for 11 BEMU units, with an option for up to 30 additional vehicles. Unlike the national operator, Leo Express guarantees the purchase of the initial batch.
The planned units should offer seating for 121–150 passengers and match the same performance parameters as required by České dráhy. The operator estimates the firm order at nearly CZK 8 billion, with deliveries expected by 2029.
The trains are intended for services between Ústí nad Orlicí and Mlýnický Dvůr, operated under contract for the Pardubice Region. As part of the financing comes from public sources via the TRANSGov Modernisation Fund, the procurement must follow an open tender rather than a direct purchase.
Major opportunity for Škoda, but also for international manufacturers
It is widely expected that Škoda Transportation will participate in all announced tenders. The company is currently the only manufacturer in Central Europe offering multi-system hybrid BEMU units, already being delivered to České dráhy and Slovakia’s ZSSK.
Until now, Škoda has often been the sole bidder in such competitions. However, the potential volume of up to 161 units across all tenders significantly changes the equation. The scale now creates a realistic opportunity for international manufacturers, including those that have not yet developed a suitable multisystem BEMU platform for smaller regional orders.
