Leo Express has unveiled a part of interior of its multi-system EMU train manufactured by CRRC Zhuzhou, with an original design which will be used exclusively by Leo Express. Several Czech design studios and many Czech and European contractors collaborated on the new design.
“Leo Express together with CRRC developed a new type of electric unit, while the design and concept is owned by our company. It’s based on our experience gained from more than a billion train-kilometres in Czech and international operation. It is made for the requirements of our customers on modern service and ergonomics. The unit is multisystem and hybrid-ready, which means it will be able to operate anywhere on the Central European rail,” says Leo Express, Leo Express CEO.
Three trains will arrive from China to Europe on ship in the second half of this year and then they will be transported to the Czech Republic.
Several Czech design studios took part in this project, with almost 20 % of used components coming from domestic contractors. The Czech subcontractors have the opportunity to take part in the export of Czech products and services to foreign countries and there is a future possibility to work with a significant manufacturer of rolling stock.
The inner layout of the vehicle and individual elements were designed by the company accordingly to the needs of current passengers. The train will include a new model of kitchen, which will provide even more refreshments. The new train will also provide a lot of space for recycling bins. The units have barrier-free entrance for parents with a stroller, for disabled passengers and for cyclists with bicycles. Space for luggage, skis and bicycles is a matter of course. Different needs of individual passengers are respected, and they will be able to travel in a special higher class or kids’ section. Design of the trains is done in the colours of the company, so the rail will welcome more black trains.
In 2016, Leo Express and CRRC signed a contract for the supply of 3 EMUs with an option for 30 additional trains, under a total investment of CZK 5billion (EUR 193.67 million). After will arrive, the new EMUs will undergo a certification at the testing circuit of VÚŽ in Velim, the test center owned by the Czech Railway Research Institute (VUZ).
At first, the new trains will operate on domestic and international routes in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland. Afterwards, Leo Express plans to expand their operation to other European countries.
To modernise its rolling stock fleet, Leo Express is currently also finishing modifications of 15 modern diesel units LINT, which it has leased from Alstom. They will go in the Pardubice and Zlín regions, where it will operate under public service obligation. All of the units are barrier-free, air-conditioned, equipped with Wi-Fi connection and electric sockets, including USB.
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