The Czech Republic is taking a significant step towards sustainable transportation with the introduction of its first battery-powered trains, developed and manufactured by Škoda Group in Pilsen. These innovative trains, based on the RegioPanter electric trains, will begin operating this Sunday, December 15th, with the new timetable.
The battery-powered trains boast impressive technical specifications, capable of reaching speeds up to 120 km/h in battery mode and 160 km/h when running on electric power. With a battery range of 80 kilometers, these trains can operate efficiently on non-electrified tracks, with even longer ranges possible on local routes where speeds typically range between 60-80 km/h.
Czech Railways has already ordered an additional 15 units, scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026. While the initial four units are modified RegioPanters equipped with batteries, the future deliveries will be entirely new battery-powered trains.
The trains feature advanced LTO batteries housed in roof-mounted boxes, complete with specialized heating and cooling systems to maintain optimal temperature. These batteries can be charged from both DC and AC power sources in approximately 30 minutes. According to Škoda Group spokesperson Jan Švehla, these trains are not only quieter but also produce zero local emissions and are equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS).
Cost considerations reveal that while a battery-powered train costs 30-40 million crowns more than its electric counterpart, it presents a more economical alternative to electrifying 20-30 kilometers of secondary tracks, which would cost billions.