České dráhy (Czech Railways – ČD) has announced a public tender for the modernisation of its Class 754 diesel-electric locomotives, aiming to upgrade up to 30 units to maintain reliable services on non-electrified routes. This move forms part of the company’s strategy to support public transport until full electrification is achieved across the network.
“Following a comprehensive market review into renewing our fleet of Class 754 diesel-electric locomotives—used primarily for express and regional services on non-electrified lines—we concluded that modernising the current locomotives is the most cost-effective solution. These locomotives currently operate routes such as Veselí nad Lužnicí to České Velenice, Hradec Králové to Trutnov, and Klatovy to Železná Ruda, as well as strengthened weekend services on the Posázaví Pacific line,” Jiří Ješeta, Member of the Board and Deputy CEO of České dráhy for Passenger Transport, explained.
The tender includes a framework agreement for the modernisation of up to 30 locomotives, with a guaranteed order of at least 10 units. All upgraded locomotives will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS). Besides regular operations, the locomotives will be used in special cases, such as power line failures or scheduled outages.
The estimated value of the framework is CZK 3.16 billion (EUR 126 million, excluding VAT), with final expenditure dependent on the actual number of locomotives modernised.
České dráhy Class 754 diesel locomotive
Originally designated T 478.4, the Class 754 locomotives were produced by ČKD Sokolovo between 1979 and 1980. Designed for passenger service, especially express trains, they feature electric heating and a top speed of 100 km/h with an output of 1,472 kW. They are a successor to the Class 753 and have been nicknamed “brejlovec” (spectacled) due to their distinctive cab design. Some units have also been modified for use in Poland under PKP Intercity.
České dráhy has previously modernised several locomotive types, including converting Class 753 to 750.7 and Class 742 to 743.2, as part of its broader rolling stock renewal strategy.
Share on:
