The Czech Railways (České dráhy – ČD) inspected the new RegioPanter hybrid trains, supplied by the Škoda Group, at the VUZ Velim Testing Center. Currently, the first four battery-powered electric trains are being tested and will soon enter service in the Moravia-Silesia region.
In total, 15 new units from the 690 series will join the four battery-powered trains already operating in the region starting in December 2024, on the Ostrava–Studénka route and to other cities in the Veřovice area. Their introduction has provided passengers with better travel conditions, including direct connections without the need to change trains. This is because the new trains also offer the ability to operate on non-electrified lines without the use of diesel trains.
Among the advantages of the RegioPanter hybrid trains are zero emissions, quiet operation, increased comfort, accessibility for people with reduced mobility, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, ergonomic seats, and power outlets.
Routes Served by the New RegioPanter Hybrid Trains
The 15 new-generation battery-powered electric trains will enter service by the end of March 2027 at the latest.
The lines that will be served by these trains are:
Ostrava – Český Těšín – Frýdek-Místek (the new S7 line, the first on which these trains will operate);
Ostrava – Opava – Krnov;
Ostrava – Suchdol nad Odrou – Budišov nad Budišovkou (weekend service);
Ostrava – Frýdlant nad Ostravicí – Ostravice (weekend service);
Ostrava – Suchdol nad Odrou – Nový Jičín (scheduled to begin in December 2027).
In June 2024, ČD and the Škoda Group signed a contract worth 143.7 million euros for the delivery of 15 two-car battery-powered electric trains and the provision of maintenance services for a period of 15 years. These trains were ordered for the Moravia-Silesia region.
It should be noted that in February, České dráhy launched a tender for the purchase of 120 hybrid trains with a firm order for 13 such trains.
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