ABB and Škoda Group have announced a partnership under which ABB will supply traction battery systems for the battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) ordered by České dráhy, the Czech national railway operator.
The initial order includes the delivery of 195 Pro Series battery packs for 15 BEMUs and the provision of comprehensive 15-year service agreement. The innovative Traction Battery Pro Series developed by ABB is compact and lightweight, and engineered to optimise vehicle performance while significantly reducing maintenance and downtime. This ABB’s innovative traction battery technology has been announced in September 2024 at InnoTrans in Berlin.
The order represents a significant advancement in the Czech railways transition to more sustainable operations, offering an immediate and practical solution for avoiding carbon emissions in rail transport. The order, with a value less than USD 20 million, was booked in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The standardised Pro Battery Series is designed to suit BEMU applications, particularly in railway networks with partial electrification. This solution enables trains to operate on both electrified and non-electrified sections of track, providing flexibility and environmental benefits without requiring full infrastructure electrification.
This is the first order for ABB traction battery systems technology placed by Škoda Group.
“This partnership with Škoda Group represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide immediately available, energy-efficient solutions for railway operators. Our Pro Battery Series is an ideal solution to meet the demands of partially electrified networks, offering operators a proven option for reducing emissions while maintaining operational efficiency,” Edgar Keller, ABB Traction Division President, said.
The partnership is the first of its kind between the two companies, that marks a milestone in railway electrification. “By partnering with ABB, we are supporting the railway industry’s commitment to a net zero future. Their Traction Battery Pro will be the perfect addition for our innovative BEMUs, as we help České dráhy bring a cleaner, quieter service,” Zdeněk Sváta, COO at Škoda Group said.
In June 2024, České dráhy signed a contract with Škoda Group for the delivery of 15 two-car BEMUs with the first entering operation in December 2024.
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