On the "Posázavský Pacifik" Line, Diesel Trains to Be Replaced by Battery-Powered Electric Trains

Prague and the Central Bohemian Region are selecting an operator for the Posázavský Pacifik line — for the first time, old diesel traction on this route will be replaced by battery-powered electric trains. Four bidders have entered the tender: Arriva vlaky, České dráhy, the Leo Express Tenders consortium together with partner Leo Express, and RegioJet.

The total estimated value of the contract over its full term is around CZK 15.8 billion, said Prague's Deputy Mayor for Transport Jaroslav Beránek (Pirates). According to him, the strong interest shown by carriers proves that the project will be a pioneer of new technology, enabling electric trains to operate on lines where building overhead wiring is either uneconomical or simply not feasible.

What passengers can expect

The new battery-powered trains will offer at least 140 seats, along with step-free access, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and space for prams and bicycles. The Posázavský Pacifik line has never been electrified, so the arrival of quiet, emission-free trains, Beránek noted, will mark a major upgrade in the travel experience along this route.

He pointed out that the line not only faces heavy weekend traffic from tourists heading to the scenic Lower Sázava region, but is also becoming increasingly important as a commuter and school route on weekdays.

Routes and passenger volumes

The basic operating plan calls for the purchase of 13 train sets, with the option to expand the fleet to 15. The planned annual mileage is 1.2 million train-kilometers, of which almost half a million will be run within Prague and around 700,000 in the Central Bohemian Region.

Trains will run from Prague via Vrané nad Vltavou to Čerčany or Čísovice, and in some cases as far as Dobříš. On weekends, a new line, T41, is also planned from Prague to the "Kutná Hora město" stop, providing a direct connection between the centers of two UNESCO World Heritage cities.

Read also: 9 best cycling routes around Prague: from the Vltava embankments to Karlštejn Castle

Source: novinky.cz