Czech Republic: Škoda to Deliver 34 BEDMU Hybrid Trains to RegioJet

Škoda Group has signed a new contract with RegioJet for the delivery of 34 of its BEDMU (Battery Electric Diesel Multiple Unit) hybrid train units.

The contract, which is worth more than 9 billion CZK, will see the units enter service in December 2029.

The trains have been conceptually designed as battery-electric units with a diesel generator set, allowing for extended range. Each unit utilises a mixture of electric power, a diesel powerpack and renewable HVO fuel (hydrotreated vegetable oil) to minimise environmental impact.

Petr Novotný, CEO Škoda Group, said:

This contract is an important step forward in bringing the most advanced technologies to Czech railways. The new BEDMU units combine passenger comfort with sustainability and efficient operation.

We are pleased to be setting new standards in Czech rail transport together with RegioJet and to continue our cooperation with this significant order.

The new trains are based on the Panter platform, which operates in a number of regions within the Czech Republic in various versions, particularly in its battery-electric variant.

Wrapped in RegioJet livery; the BEDMU trains will operate along the R14A Pardubice–Liberec, R14B Liberec–Ústí nad Labem, R21 Prague–Tanvald, R22 Kolín–Rumburk, and R24 Prague–Rumburk routes starting December 2029.

Each train will feature a business class section, with 10 seats in the two-car and 16 in the three-car version. The units are equipped with onboard vending machines, air conditioning, passenger information systems, Wi-Fi and charging sockets.

The trains will feature level boarding and low floor interiors to ensure accessibility, as well as spaces for prams. The new units will also be equipped with digital technologies developed by the Škoda Group itself, including systems for energy consumption optimisation and a remote monitoring system. Finally, each train will also be fitted with the European Train Control System (ETCS).

name, said:

With the new units and the gradual modernisation of the line, we will offer passengers faster connections. For example, the journey between Pardubice and Liberec will be shortened by almost half an hour. Our customers can look forward to modern, barrier-free travel and the high-quality service they know from our yellow trains.

The new units will provide greater comfort, quieter operation and modern design. Their environmental friendliness is also highly important.