Bulgaria begins rollout of new electric trains

Bulgaria has begun the phased introduction of new electric trains into its railway network. The first set of 20 zero-emission Skoda electric multiple units is being deployed, with all 20 expected to be in service by August 20. This initiative is part of a larger modernization effort, with plans to reach approximately 60 new trains by early September.

The initial 20 units will primarily serve shorter routes, while subsequent deliveries are intended for longer distances. Key routes receiving these new trains include Sofia–Plovdiv, Sofia–Vidin, and services between Plovdiv and Dimitrovgrad. The Sofia–Plovdiv express is expected to reach speeds of up to 160 km/h on certain sections.

Financially, the first 20 units cost 261.4 million euros (excluding VAT), funded through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Total investments in new rolling stock are expected to exceed 400 million euros, marking the most significant railway update in Bulgaria in over two decades. The new trains feature low floors for accessibility, Wi-Fi, and modern safety systems, with a capacity for over 700 passengers per unit.