Arriva Group has been awarded a EUR 750 million contract by the Czech Ministry of Transport to operate long-distance electric rail services in western Czechia. The 15-year contract represents a major expansion of Arriva’s operations in the region and will unlock a EUR 300 million investment in a modern, zero-emission train fleet.
Beginning in December 2028, Arriva will operate electric services connecting Prague to the Pilsen and Karlovy Vary regions, including key destinations such as Cheb and Klatovy near the German border. The company will procure 22 new electric trains capable of speeds up to 200 km/h, increasing capacity and service quality on one of the country’s busiest corridors.
“This is a flagship win that reinforces our commitment to sustainable growth in Czechia and across Europe,” said Sian Leydon, Managing Director for Mainland Europe at Arriva Group. “It unlocks a major investment in modern, zero-emission trains and gives more people the choice to switch to reliable, high-quality passenger transport, taking cars off the congested highway between these major cities.”
The award supports Arriva’s strategic focus on growing in liberalising markets and delivering low-carbon public transport. Arriva already has a strong presence in the Pilsen region and operates electric trains there. The new contract will enable the company to build on this experience at scale.
The Czech government’s investment in rail infrastructure—including the construction of a new line with a 25 km tunnel—is expected to significantly reshape travel in the region. Arriva’s new services will form part of this modernised network, offering passengers a more attractive and sustainable alternative to car travel.
“This is the largest investment Arriva has made in the Czech Republic,” said Daniel Adamka, Managing Director of Arriva CZ. “It will bring greater comfort to passengers travelling from Prague to Western Bohemia, and we believe it will attract new customers to rail. I’m proud of our team, who won this contract against strong competition from three other operators.”
The contract was secured through a competitive tendering process and highlights the benefits of market liberalisation in encouraging investment and innovation. It also aligns with broader EU transport policy goals promoting modal shift and reducing emissions.
The new trains will feature high-performance specifications to deliver a fast, comfortable, and efficient passenger experience. Journey times are expected to be shortened, while increased capacity will help meet growing demand along the westbound routes from Prague.
Arriva in Czechia
Arriva has operated in the Czech rail market since 2013 and has grown steadily since its entry. Today, it runs 102 trains, more than 1,800 buses, and employs over 3,500 people in the country. Its Czech operations deliver over 15,000 daily bus connections and transport more than 115 million passengers annually.
At the European level, Arriva operates in 11 countries and provides a wide range of transport services, including buses, trains, trams, waterbuses, coaches, and bike-sharing. The group is actively investing in sustainable mobility, including zero-emission buses, electric and hybrid trains, and digital mobility solutions.
“This development supports our goal to connect communities through greener, smarter transport,” added Leydon. “We’re proud to be contributing to the next chapter of Czech rail and shaping the long-term future of passenger transport across Europe.”
The first services under the new contract are due to begin in late 2028, once infrastructure upgrades are completed and the new fleet has been delivered and commissioned.
Share on:
