90 Years of Trolleybuses in Prague: Anniversary with an Eye on the Future

With an extensive programme, Prague is marking the introduction of trolleybus transport 90 years ago – while at the same time looking ahead to the future of emission-free mobility.

The Czech capital and the transport company Dopravní podnik hl. m. Prahy (DPP) are commemorating a special anniversary this year: 90 years ago, the first trolleybus line began operation in Prague. On 28 August 1936, line K ran for the first time on the route between Střešovice and Svatý Matěj.

To mark the anniversary, the transport company has prepared an extensive programme. Planned events include open days, special journeys with historic vehicles, and an exhibition at the Střešovice depot. The highlight of the celebrations is expected to be the first weekend in September, when the main part of the programme will take place. Details will be announced gradually. This year’s motto is: “Trolleybus celebrates, Prague has fun” (Trolejbus slaví, Praha se baví).

Foto: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy

Last year, Prague already marked 150 years of public transport as well as 100 years of bus operations. Now, attention turns to the history of trolleybuses, which once played an important role in the city’s transport system and are now experiencing a revival.

“Trolleybuses stand for technological progress and environmentally friendly mobility. The 90th anniversary is a reminder that Prague has always been among the cities driving innovation,” said Jan Šurovský, Deputy Chairman of the Board and Technical Director for Surface Transport at Prague’s public transport company.

As part of the celebrations, a special campaign is also being launched: buses, trams and trolleybuses will receive a distinctive anniversary design. Vehicles with this livery are already entering service, including SOR NB 18 buses and a historic tram from the transport museum. A modern Škoda 36Tr trolleybus will follow later.

Foto: Eugen Kukla | Facebook

The accompanying programme includes exhibitions and guided tours, as well as special journeys with historic vehicles at the beginning of September. In addition, DPP will offer various memorabilia in its own fan shop – from souvenirs to a newly released publication on the history of Prague’s public transport.

Return of a Mode of Transport with Tradition

In recent years, Prague has systematically expanded its trolleybus network. Modern vehicles with battery support enable flexible and emission-free operation. At the beginning of April, another route was added with line 52. Previously, lines 58 and 59 had already entered service, and further routes are in preparation.

In the long term, trolleybuses are considered an important component of sustainable urban mobility – particularly as a replacement for heavily used bus routes.

Foto: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy

Historical Roots Date Back to the Early 20th Century

The history of trolleybuses in the region goes back even further. As early as 1907, a first line was opened between České Velenice and the Austrian town of Gmünd. In Prague itself, the development of modern trolleybuses began in the 1930s, initially with test routes and prototype vehicles.

After the Second World War, the network was rapidly expanded and reached its peak in the 1950s. However, due to political decisions, it was gradually phased out, until operations were completely discontinued in 1972.

Since 2017 and 2022 respectively, trolleybuses have been making a comeback in Prague – and have been developing dynamically ever since.