České dráhy and Pesa Bydgoszcz signed an agreement for the supply of 160 two-car diesel multiple units (DMUs) with an initial order for 33 trains valued at CZK 3 billion (EUR 114.4 million).
The trains are similar to the existing RegioShark running in the Ústí nad Labem, Liberec, Karlovy Vary, Plzeň, Pardubice and Zlín regions since 2014. The Czech Railways already operates two-car trains of the 844 series manufactured by Pesa Bydgoszcz under the name RegioShark.
The DMUs, equipped with the ETCS, air conditioning system, Wi-Fi and sockets for recharging small electronics. They will also have modern audiovisual information system with LCD monitors and information labels in Braille that will inform passengers about the progress and any incidents on the route. The new trains will be barrier-free, will have a capacity of 115 seats and will provide sufficient space for prams, bicycles and wheelchairs.
“It is necessary to keep our word for the regions and Prague and gradually replace the vehicles which, for example, the ETCS technology can no longer be installed and have failed to meet current customer demands for travel comfort. New modern trains will encourage the public to use more frequently our rail transport services,” Ivan Bednárik, the CEO of ČD said.
The passengers will have a bright and spacious interior with ergonomically designed seats, will have enough space for passengers with reduced mobility and will be fitted with a platform to bridge the space between the platform and the floor of the car.
“The new vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art low-emission Phase V engines and many other technical innovations and are environmentally friendly engine units that meet and exceed the most demanding European standards,” Krzysztof Zdziarski, the CEO of Pesa Bydgoszcz said.
The trains will be put into operation starting the 2023 timetable on the railway network of Central Bohemian, Pardubice, South Bohemian, Vysočina and Prague regions.
“Thanks to low-floor design, air conditioning, comfortable interior and sufficient power with a maximum speed of 120 km/h, these new trains will allow people to travel faster, more conveniently and more accessible across regions,” Jiří Ješeta, Member of the Board of Directors of ČD said.
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