Overview
Slovakia national passenger operator ZSSK has selected a consortium of Skoda Group and ZOS Trnava to deliver up to 36 two car battery electric multiple units, known as BEMUs. The framework contract is valued at approximately €332 million with an initial firm tranche for 16 trains due early next year. Each train is expected to cost between €8.5 million and €9.2 million, a figure that places battery equipment within the same price range as many conventional electric units.
Technology Highlights
The new trains derive from the proven Skoda Panter platform and include a modular battery pack that allows operation under both overhead catenary and battery power. Performance will reach 160 kilometres per hour on wired sections and 120 kilometres per hour on battery power. A minimum battery range of 80 kilometres gives operators flexibility to serve non electrified branches without new infrastructure. Batteries recharge from the overhead line, through regenerative braking and at dedicated charging points, and they arrive with an eight year warranty. Passenger comfort also rises, thanks to 157 seats, full air conditioning, modern information systems and onboard ETCS Level 2.
Broader Impact
Deployment is planned on four regional corridors including Nové Zámky to Nitra and Nitra to Bratislava. Replacing older diesel stock will eliminate an estimated 130 million kilograms of carbon dioxide every year while reducing local noise. Building part of the fleet inside Slovakia will anchor skilled manufacturing jobs and deepen domestic knowledge in battery technology.
A Less Visible Advantage
Because the trains can cover eighty kilometres on stored energy, ZSSK can sequence electrification gradually. Lines that would have required immediate wiring can now wait until traffic volumes justify investment, a strategy that frees capital for service improvements elsewhere.
Conclusion
The deal signals a confident step toward cleaner affordable mobility, pairing regional comfort with national industrial growth.