Leo Express has launched a procurement procedure to expand its rolling stock through the acquisition of new EMUs and BEMUs under a framework agreement.
The total estimated value of the contract is EUR 1.65 billion (CZK 40 billion), depending on final volumes and exercised options. The deadline for submitting bids is 29 June 2026.
The tender is structured into four regional lots and provides for a firm order of 44 BEMUs an 21 EMUs. In addition, each lot includes options for up to four additional units per type, potentially adding a further 16 BEMUs and 12 EMUs units.
Lot structure
Lot 1 – Olomouc region covers the procurement of 11 BEMU units, with an option for four additional units.
Lot 2 – Zlín region includes seven BEMUs, with an option for a further four units.
Lot 3 – Hradec Králové region foresees 18 BEMUs and 8 EMUs.
Lot 4 – Vysočina region provides for 8 BEMUs and 13 EMUs.
According to the tender documentation, the battery electric units will offer a capacity of 121–151 seats, a maximum speed of up to 120 km/h in battery mode and up to 160 km/h in electric mode. The EMUs will provide between 121 and 150 seats and operate at speeds of up to 160 km/h on electrified infrastructure (25 kV AC / 3 kV DC).
The award criteria are based on three key components: price, maintenance costs and electricity consumption, with a strong focus on cost efficiency. The weighting is set at 70% for price, 22% for maintenance costs and 8% for energy consumption.
Through this procedure, Leo Express is launching its most significant fleet renewal programme to date, as the company currently operates around 24 trains in the Czech Republic.
Rapid growth driving fleet expansion
The decision to launch a new rolling stock tender comes amid rapid expansion of Leo Express operations and strong passenger growth in recent years. In April, the operator inaugurated modernised Talgo VI trains leased from Renfe, each consisting of 13 carriages with a capacity of 350 passengers.
Since Renfe acquired a 50% stake in Leo Express in 2021, the company has experienced steady growth, marked by international network expansion, rising passenger numbers and a strengthened position in Central European markets.
In 2025, Leo Express carried 4.565 million passengers, up more than 19.2% year-on-year, making it the fastest-growing Czech rail operator. On its commercial routes in the Czech Republic alone, the company recorded growth of over 25%, while the overall rail market stagnated, according to preliminary data from the Czech Statistical Office.
Leo Express has also maintained a high level of operational reliability in recent years, reporting zero operator-caused incidents and only 8.95% of delays attributable to the company. At the same time, heating and air-conditioning systems achieved 100% functionality, reinforcing passenger confidence.
Customer satisfaction remains strong, with 90% of passengers satisfied with onboard cleanliness and nearly 89% satisfied with staff and catering services. These high standards place additional pressure on the continuous modernisation of the rolling stock fleet.
Operational pressure and need for modern rolling stock
Sustained demand growth has driven network expansion and increased service frequency. In 2026, Leo Express expects to exceed six million passengers annually, supported by new international and regional routes.
Planned connections include direct services between Kraków and Warsaw, expanded operations between Prague and Bratislava, and new cross-border routes to Germany, including Dresden, Leipzig, Erfurt and Frankfurt. The operator has also recently signed a contract with the Czech Ministry of Transport to operate the Prague–Plzeň–Domažlice route from December 2026, ensuring a direct rail connection between Prague and Munich.
This expansion will significantly increase demand for modern, energy-efficient rolling stock capable of operating on both electrified and non-electrified lines.
Share on:
