Last weekend, the Czech Republic started operating its first battery-powered train services when a battery train built by the Škoda Group was officially presented at Ostrava-střed railway station.

Attending the train’s inauguration were distinguished guests, including the Minister of Transport Martin Kupka, CEO of the Czech Railways Michal Krapinec, the Governor of the Moravian-Silesian Region Josef Bělica and Tomáš Ignačák, Vice-Chairman of Škoda GroupOstrava, Czech Republic.

The new train marks a new era for the Czech Republic’s non-electrified lines, and after a return trip to Frýdek-Místek, the unit went into service on the S8 line in the Moravian-Silesian Region.

Built by the Škoda Group, the battery-powered unit is the first train of its kind to operate on Czech railways.

It is based on Škoda’s proven RegioPanter platform that is already operating in most regions of the Czech Republic and abroad, including Uzbekistan, Estonia, and Bulgaria.

Fitted with lithium-titanate-oxide (LTO) batteries, the train can be charged from both DC and AC mains, with a full charge taking just 25-30 minutes, depending on the voltage type.

It is equipped with ETCS, has a range of up to 80 kilometres on a single charge, and compared to diesel units it has faster acceleration, quieter in operation, and zero local emissions. Maximum speeds are 120 km/h on battery power and 160 km/h on electrified sections.

Low floor boarding with wide doors provides easy access for wheelchairs, the elderly, and people with prams, and there is ample space for luggage, bicycles, and sports equipment. Wi-Fi and electrical outlets are provided by the seats, and there are modern barrier-free toilets with a changing counter.

In September, Škoda Group secured an order from Bulgaria for 20 RegioPanter type electric trains, which followed an order last year for ten RegioPanters from Estonia.

“Our new battery train is a technological milestone that continues our long tradition of innovation in transport. Already in the 1930s – at a time when most people were just beginning to think about similar technologies – we produced the first battery locomotive. We have built on these foundations in modern times – from battery-powered trams to trolleybuses to this train. It is another step on the road to environmentally friendly, flexible, and sustainable transport and proof that Czech industry can be at the forefront of innovation. Passengers can look forward to a comfortable ride on a modern vehicle. Low floor boarding with wide doors, space for orthopaedic wheelchairs, prams and bicycles, a spacious toilet and, of course, Wi-Fi or sockets for charging small electronics. Our aim was to create a train that will increase passenger comfort and at the same time support the transition to environmentally friendly transport. This train is a promise of a modern and sustainable future on Czech railways.”

Tomáš Ignačák, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors at Škoda Group