Czech Battery Train Fleet Nears Entry Into Passenger Service

VELIM, April 2026 — Czech Railways (České dráhy) is moving forward with its plan to introduce the new battery-electric RegioPanter fleet. The final testing is currently underway at the Velim test centre, an important site for testing rail safety and performance in Europe.

This fleet will include 15 battery-electric trains made by Škoda Group. These trains can run on both overhead electricity and batteries. Right now, four of these trains are undergoing tests to ensure they meet all safety and performance standards.

The trains are set to start operating commercially by March 2027. They will run efficiently on non-electrified tracks without diesel engines, supporting our goal of reducing carbon emissions while providing reliable service across various rail networks.

This shift to battery-electric trains shows a modern approach to European rail that values battery technology as a cost-effective option to full electrification. It allows for gradual reductions in emissions without the high costs and delays that come with upgrading rail systems.

The Velim test program highlights the importance of independent testing in promoting innovation in train technology as battery systems develop. We look forward to these advanced trains being used in regional areas where traditional electrification would be too expensive or difficult to implement. The future of rail transportation looks promising.