Arriva Group has signed a contract with Škoda for €300m to supply new electric trains in Czech Republic.
Under the agreement, Škoda will supply 22 electric trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 200km/h.
Long-distance rail services
Arriva’s investment in the new fleet follows the award of a 15-year, €750m contract by the Czech Ministry of Transport last month to operate long-distance rail services connecting Prague, Pilsen and Western Bohemia – one of the country’s busiest transport corridors.
The new trains will be in operation from December 2028, reportedly cutting journey times and offering an alternative to private car use. Around 80 per cent of the new fleet supply chain will be sourced locally in Czechia, reinforcing Arriva’s commitment to strong local partnerships and contributing to regional economic growth.
“Our partnership with Škoda is a significant milestone for our rail operations in Czechia and a strong demonstration of our ambition to grow in liberalising European markets,” said Sian Leydon, managing director for Mainland Europe at Arriva Group.
“By investing in modern trains and partnering with established local suppliers, we’re directly contributing to sustainable economic growth and driving the shift towards greener travel. We’re thrilled our latest fleet investment will provide passengers with faster, reliable and sustainable alternatives to road travel.”
The new fleet builds on Arriva’s growing electric rail presence in Czechia, following the introduction of electric trains in the Pilsen region in 2023. Arriva entered the Czech rail market in 2013 and now employs more than 3,500 people, operating over 1,800 buses and 100 trains and serving millions of passengers each year.
Arriva’s sustainable travel solutions, include zero-emission buses, electric and hybrid trains, and digital mobility solutions across Europe. This latest contract and investment marks a significant step in Arriva’s European growth strategy.
Source: smartcitiesworld.net
