České dráhy begins testing 100% eco-friendly HVO fuel in RegioFox trains

České dráhy, in collaboration with the Central Bohemian Region, has commenced the final stage of testing 100% eco-friendly fuel in its RegioFox diesel multiple units. The testing involves using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) during daily operations at the Rakovník depot.

The RegioFox units, manufactured by PESA Bydgoszcz, are equipped with Rolls-Royce internal combustion engines capable of utilizing biofuels. This follows a successful previous trial using fuel with a 20% biofuel component.

Jiří Ješeta, Vice Chairman and Deputy General Manager for Passenger Transport at České dráhy, stated that while the company aims to expand electric traction, many lines remain non-electrified and will require combustion engines for decades. The use of HVO is intended to reduce local emissions and protect the environment on these routes.