Czech Republic: Since October last year, ČD, the national operator, has announced four tenders for the supply of up to 212 single- and double-deck trains of different traction systems, and this is the largest order in the company’s history. In addition, ČD is planning to announce another call for purchase of 27 vehicles. All the calls, however, provide for framework supply agreements.
The recent tender was announced this week. It is for supply and maintenance of up to 47 double-car electric trains at the initial price of CZK 8.4 bln (€350 m). New trains with minimum capacity of 140 passengers would be equipped for 3 kV DC and 25 kV electrification systems and for operation at the maximum speed of 160 km/h.
Earlier in December 2022, the operator launched its first tender for supply and maintenance of up to 15 hybrid trains at the initial price of CZK 3.4 bln (€141.5 m). The winning bidder is expected to supply rolling stock powered either by electric main or batteries with the minimum capacity of 400 kWh. The traction system should ensure reaching 160 km/h at 25 kV AC lines or 3 kV DC lines and 120 km/h in autonomous mode.
Previously, in October and November, ČD announced impressive calls for up to 150 trains worth CZK 74.2 bln (€3 bln). Under the tender of 31 October for 60 sets for regional service and the tender of 18 November for 90 four-car sets for suburban service, winning bidders are expected to supply rolling stock for 25 kV AC lines or 3 kV DC lines. It is emphasized that the contract price is not the only decisive criterion, energy consumption and maintenance costs will be considered, too.
The winner of the first tender must supply rolling stock operating at the maximum speed of 200 km/h and having at least 300 seats. Special focus is given to such a feature as multiple unit operation of two sets to ensure splitting for different destinations when necessary. Scheduled delivery will start in 2025.
Under the second tender, a supplier would provide EMUs with the maximum speed of at least 160 km/h and having at least 380 seats and spaces for two wheelchairs, six pushchairs and 30 bicycles. ČD envisages purchase of fully double-deck and partially double-deck EMUs. With multiple-unit operation of up to three sets, these are expected to create a 12-car train accommodating up to 1,140 passengers. Deliveries are scheduled to start in 2027. The new rolling stock will replace Skoda’s double-deck EMUs, City Elefant, that ČD purchased in 1997-2013. ČD invited Skoda, Alstom, Bombardier, CAF, Siemens, Stadler, Pesa and Newag for technical consultancy, and then eased demand for a maximum speed from 200 to 160 km/h.
According to ČD, another tender for up to 27 hybrid trains designated only for AC lines is prepared now. There are plans to purchase four trains from Skoda Group by changing the terms of a current contract for electric trains. Last March, the Czech manufacturer announced start of the test operation of a two-car prototype powered by catenary and batteries.
