Croatia’s state-owned rail operator, HŽ Passenger Transport (HŽPP), has put into commercial operation the country’s first battery-electric train (BEMU) on the Zagreb – Bjelovar – Zagreb route. This milestone marks a significant step forward in Croatia’s efforts to modernise its railway system and promote sustainable, environmentally friendly transport solutions. Furthermore, HŽPP is planning to procure 13 additional trains powered by hybrid and alternative propulsion technologies, aiming to further expand the fleet with modern, energy-efficient vehicles.
The inaugural journey of the battery-electric train was a significant event attended by several distinguished figures, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport of the Republic of Croatia, Oleg Butković, the President of the Management Board of HŽ Passenger Transport, Željko Ukić and the President of the Management Board of Končar – Electrical Industry, Gordan Kolak. At Bjelovar station, the train was officially welcomed by the Prefect of Bjelovar-Bilogora County, Marko Marušić, along with the Mayor of Bjelovar, Dario Hrebak, highlighting the regional importance of this project.
“This is a historic day not only for Croatian railways but also for the entire Croatian economy,” declared Deputy Prime Minister Butković during the ceremony. “This inaugural trip of the new battery-electric train demonstrates our commitment to the comprehensive modernisation of the railway system, a process that began some time ago and is now fully underway. The contract to procure this train was signed two and a half years ago, marking the start of a new chapter in sustainable rail transport.”
Reflecting on the ongoing investment cycle, Minister Butković emphasised the scale of the renewal of Croatia’s rail fleet, noting that HŽPP currently operates 63 new low-floor trains, with more than half acquired over the past three to four years. This large-scale renewal programme underscores the government’s focus on improving the quality, comfort, and environmental performance of rail travel in the country.
The first battery-electric train was manufactured as part of the project titled The Use of Green Technologies in Railway Passenger Transport, which is funded through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021–2026 (NRRP). Alongside this train, six state-of-the-art charging stations have been constructed at major railway hubs including Split, Osijek, Varaždin, Bjelovar, Virovitica, and Pula. The total cost of the project amounts to EUR 17.1 million, with EUR 13.3 million provided by the NRRP. The Croatian company Končar – Electric Vehicles was responsible for the production of both the battery trains and the charging infrastructure, showcasing domestic expertise in cutting-edge rail technology.
The introduction of battery-electric trains enables the organisation of railway passenger services on non-electrified lines in an environmentally sustainable manner, utilising modern trains powered solely by electricity. By applying green technologies in rail transport, the energy efficiency of the overall transport system is enhanced, while noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions are significantly reduced, contributing to Croatia’s broader climate goals.
During the inaugural trip along the Zagreb – Bjelovar – Zagreb route, the train employed both of its power systems. It operated on the 44 km electrified section up to Gradec station, drawing power from the overhead contact line. Beyond Gradec, for the remaining 30 km to Bjelovar, it switched to battery mode. “This dual-power operation demonstrates the flexibility and efficiency of the battery-electric train,” explained HŽPP CEO Željko Ukić. He also confirmed plans to acquire an additional 13 hybrid trains as part of the ongoing fleet modernisation.
The BEMU is a low-floor trainset designed with accessibility and passenger comfort in mind. It features ramps to facilitate boarding and alighting for wheelchair users, designated spaces for bicycles, and accessible toilets adapted to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility. The entire passenger area is monitored by a comprehensive video surveillance system to ensure safety and security. Furthermore, passenger compartments are equipped with monitors displaying video content, and there are both visual and audio announcements to inform passengers about upcoming stations and stops. To enhance the travel experience, free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the train. The unit offers seating for 157 passengers and standing room for 158.
This train has been engineered for an average daily distance of up to 480 km and can operate for up to 18 hours a day. Additionally, it can be functionally coupled with other new-generation low-floor trains, which allows for increased capacity and operational flexibility during peak travel times.
The battery-electric multiple unit will be deployed across both electrified and non-electrified rail lines throughout Croatia. On non-electrified lines, it will run solely on battery power, reaching a maximum speed of 120 km/h. On electrified sections, the train draws power from the overhead contact wire and can achieve speeds of up to 160 km/h. The batteries are rechargeable either directly from the overhead line while running or at specially constructed charging stations at key stops.
This project represents a key step in Croatia’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions in public transport, advancing the modernisation of its railway infrastructure, and improving the overall travel experience for passengers nationwide.
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