First RegioJet PESA Unit for the R9 Line from Prague to Brno via Vysočina Arrives at Test Track
The new train fleet is expected to begin operating with passengers from December this year
Foto: RegioJet
The first new electric unit for the RegioJet express line R9 from Prague via Havlíčkův Brod to Brno or Jihlava has arrived at the railway test facility in Velim. The train from the Polish manufacturer PESA is currently undergoing extensive technical testing there.
The first four-car electric unit of the series 666 from the Polish manufacturer PESA Bydgoszcz has arrived at the railway test facility in Velim. The train is intended for the express line R9 between Prague, Havlíčkův Brod and Brno or Jihlava. At the test facility, the unit will now undergo a series of technical tests required for approval for regular operation. Passenger service is planned to begin in December this year.
In total, RegioJet will take delivery of 18 of these electric multiple units – including eleven four-car and seven three-car units. The trains are designed for a maximum speed of up to 200 kilometres per hour and are to be approved for operation in the Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia. Equipment will include the European Train Control System (ETCS) as well as the national safety systems of all three countries.
Foto: RegioJet
Comfort and modern equipment
The new trains will be fully low-floor and designed as open-plan trains. The focus is on providing a high level of comfort for passengers. Three fare classes are planned – Business (1st class), Standard and Economy (2nd class).
In the Business class, the seats will be arranged in a 2+1 configuration with greater spacing between the rows. In the Standard class, a 2+2 seating layout is planned, with selected seats additionally equipped with screens. Both seat types will feature leather upholstery.
Source: Visualization: RegioJet | PESA
The equipment will also include spaces for two wheelchair users, storage for up to ten bicycles, space for up to six prams and 16 seats for families with children. In addition, the trains will feature an on-board kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave and coffee machine. Air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power sockets and USB ports, wireless charging for mobile phones, a modern information system and vacuum toilets are also planned.
“After six years, Jihlava will once again receive a direct connection with the Czech capital at two-hour intervals. Passengers can look forward to significantly greater comfort and high-quality service, including freshly ground coffee and other refreshments,” said RegioJet owner Radim Jančura.
Source: Visualization: RegioJet | PESA
From December 2026, RegioJet plans to operate an hourly service on the R9 line between Prague and Havlíčkův Brod. The trains will run via Kutná Hora and Čáslav. From Havlíčkův Brod, the services will then continue either to Brno or to Jihlava.
