RegioJet invests in eco-friendly mobility: From December 2029, the company will introduce 34 new hybrid trains from the Škoda Group in Northeast Bohemia. The modern units are designed to enhance passenger comfort while saving up to 19,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Škoda Group and RegioJet have announced the signing of a contract worth over CZK 9 billion for the delivery of 34 hybrid train units (18 two-car and 16 three-car) of the new BEDMU type (Battery Electric Diesel Multiple Unit). These trains represent the most efficient solution for providing environmentally friendly and comfortable transport on key routes in Northeast Bohemia that are not yet electrified.
The modern trains are conceptually designed as battery–electric units with a diesel generator set that allows for extended range, fully aligned with the requirements of the Czech Ministry of Transport. Thanks to the maximum use of electric power, optimisation of the diesel powerpack, and the use of renewable HVO fuel (hydrotreated vegetable oil), the trains achieve optimal operating costs while minimising environmental impact.
“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. Their environmental friendliness is also highly important,” said Radim Jančura, owner of RegioJet.
Proven platform with an innovative approach
The new trains are based on the well-known Panter platform, which is highly adaptable and already operates in many regions of the Czech Republic in various versions, particularly in its battery-electric variant. In this new type, traction motors will be powered by overhead lines, stored battery energy, and the diesel powerpack. This minimises the use of fossil fuels and maximises operational efficiency. Deploying these units will reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 19,000 tonnes annually. The diesel powerpack serves only as a generator to enable extended range with continuous battery charging.
Each train will feature a business-class section with 10 seats in the two-car version and 16 in the three-car version. Passengers will also appreciate onboard vending machines, powerful air conditioning, modern passenger information systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, and charging sockets for electronic devices. Safety will be enhanced by internal and external camera systems. Each train will also be fitted with the European Train Control System (ETCS).
In RegioJet’s colours, the BEDMU trains will operate the R14A Pardubice–Liberec, R14B Liberec–Ústí nad Labem, R21 Prague–Tanvald, R22 Kolín–Rumburk, and R24 Prague–Rumburk routes from December 2029.
