Škoda Group begins production of new electric trains for Czechia

Škoda Group has commenced production of new electric multiple units (EMU) for Arriva in Czechia. Following a CZK 7 billion contract signed in July 2025, the company is manufacturing 22 units based on the Škoda 26Ev platform at its plant in Ostrava.

The order consists of 16 three-car units and six four-car units, capable of reaching speeds of 200 km/h. These dual-voltage trains are designed to operate on 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC supplies, with the capacity to be modified for 15 kV AC systems used in Germany. The units will feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and advanced Automatic Train Operation (ATO) technology designed to reduce energy consumption by up to 15%.

Scheduled to enter service starting in December 2028, the trains will serve routes including Prague–Pilsen–Cheb and Prague–Beroun–Pilsen–Klatovy/Železná Ruda. Prototype testing is expected to begin in spring 2027, with component testing currently underway in collaboration with the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen.