CZECH REPUBLIC: National operator ČD has signed a framework agreement with Škoda Transportation and Škoda Vagonka covering the supply of up to 60 RegioPanter regional electric multiple-units with a potential value of almost KC9·6bn. One other bid was submitted.
Firm orders are to be placed as and when financing is secured by the operator. An initial 29 EMUs are expected to be delivered to the Moravskoslezský region from 2023, with 27 units for the Olomouc area to follow subject to agreements being reached with the regional authority.
ČD Chairman Václav Nebeský said the 160 km/h three-car EMUs would provide passengers with increased comfort, accessibility and safety. They will have almost 240 seats in two classes, with air-conditioning, audiovisual passenger information systems, USB sockets, wi-fi, CCTV and ETCS.
‘Our RegioPanters represent a new, modern era of travel’, said Škoda Transportation Chairman Petr Brzezina when the agreement was announced on November 13. ‘In recent years, we have produced more than 50 of them for ČD, including InterPanter units, and more are currently in production. These state-of-the-art trains carry passengers not only in most regions of the Czech Republic, but also in Slovakia and soon in Latvia.’
- ČD has awarded TRATEC-CS a KC700m framework contract for the refurbishment of up to 52 Bdmtee coaches, with a firm order for an initial 16 for use in the Pardubice region.
