Croatia’s national passenger rail operator, HŽPP, has unveiled the new hybrid multiple units for the Zagreb–Split line.
The event took place on March 16, at the factory of manufacturer Končar Electric Vehicles, attended by Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butković, State Secretary for Railways Žarko Tušek from the Ministry of Transport, the Chairman of the Board of HŽPP, and Končar President Gordan Kolak, accompanied by other company representatives.
Two diesel-electric multiple units are currently in production as part of a contract with HŽPP for six trains intended for the Zagreb–Split route. The value of the project, financed by a loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB), amounts to 57.3 million EUR.
Additionally, 19 trains for HŽPP are currently in production, and the first hybrid multiple unit for the Zagreb–Split line will enter service in July, with subsequent deliveries planned at a rate of one train per month until the six trains are completed by the end of the year. In addition, 20 new low-floor trams for Zagreb are currently being produced at the same factory. “Over the past few years, 70 new trains have been delivered, so we are continuously acquiring new trains. I am pleased that the purchase of another 36 trains is also planned, for which we must secure funding, thus continuing the modernization and renewal of the fleet,” said Minister Butković.
A large number of specialists from the Končar Group are involved in the development and production of the new hybrid multiple units, in collaboration with dozens of Croatian companies, and the technical specifications have been developed in accordance with international standards and modern technological trends.
After Končar produced diesel-electric, diesel, battery-electric, and battery-powered multiple units, the new electric-diesel train is the fifth type of traction to roll out of the Končar plant.
“Such projects are the best indicator of the strength of the national industry, because behind every train stand Croatian engineers, local development, and a broad ecosystem of suppliers. The successful partnership between Končar and HŽPP is once again confirmed by joint solutions that enhance the quality of travel and bring tangible benefits to passengers,” emphasized Gordan Kolak.
The first electric-diesel train for the Zagreb–Split line will be delivered at the end of July 2026. The trains will ensure better connectivity between the two major cities and more daily departures, thereby improving local and regional mobility and the quality of transport for citizens.
“These are modern trains with a high level of comfort, and their quality will certainly stimulate an increase in passenger numbers. With the introduction of these trains, we also plan to increase the number of trips between Zagreb and Split, so that, with the new train schedule, we will introduce three daily departures to Split and the same number in the opposite direction,” emphasized the president of HŽPP.
He also noted that currently, approximately 250,000 passengers are transported daily on the Zagreb–Split route, but with the increased frequency and the introduction of the new trains, this number will rise significantly. In addition to reducing travel time, the operator’s goal is to reach 500,000 passengers on this route as soon as possible. In addition to the six trains, the purchase of five more has been contracted; these will be delivered in 2027 and will provide connections between Osijek, Rijeka, and Pula via Slovenia.
Given that Zagreb and Split are connected by a 429-km line, electrified between Zagreb and Oštarije (103 km), and between Oštarije and Split (326 km) is non-electrified, the trains will use both electric and diesel traction during the journey, equipped with powerful engines to handle the challenging conditions of the mountainous route. The maximum speed will be 160 km/h, and the trains will be able to be coupled together to increase transport capacity.
A high-quality rail connection between Zagreb and Split has significant potential to increase passenger numbers. The acquisition of these trains contributes to improving the energy efficiency of the transport system, as well as reducing noise and greenhouse gas emissions.
This project continues the modernization of HŽ Putnički prijevoz’s rolling stock, ensuring more efficient, competitive, and sustainable passenger rail transport in Croatia.
The trains are low-floor, will have four doors on each side, ramps for wheelchair access, bicycle storage, and restrooms, one of which is accessible for people with reduced mobility.
The entire passenger area will be monitored by video. There will be screens for multimedia content, and in addition to audio and visual station announcements, passengers will have access to free Wi-Fi. The trains will be equipped with modern information systems, power outlets, and vending machines for food and beverages.
The total seating capacity is 150 seats (18 in first class and 132 in second class).
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