Slovakia’s national passenger rail operator, Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko (ZSSK), has secured European funding for the BMUs (battery-powered multiple units) ordered from the consortium formed by Škoda and ŽOS Trnava.
ZSSK has signed a contract for 16 battery-powered trains worth EUR 332 million, which includes an option for an additional 20 multiple units.
The rail operator signed a non-reimbursable financing contract with the Ministry of Transport, a document that took effect in April 2026. The total eligible value of the project amounts to EUR 144 million, excluding VAT.
“Securing this funding represents an important step toward modernizing regional rail transport in the country.
Battery-powered trains offer a practical solution for non-electrified lines, extending the benefits of electric traction to more regions without requiring massive infrastructure investments,” stated Denisa Žiláková, State Secretary at the Ministry of Transport.
Battery-powered trains replace multiple units
The project aims to modernize the fleet used in regional transport, particularly in the Nitra, Trenčín, Trnava, and Žilina regions. The 16 battery-powered electric multiple units included in the base contract will be put into service according to operational needs, primarily on lines where diesel trains currently operate and where the infrastructure is not electrified.
Delivery of the trains depends on the production cycle, authorization processes, and the installation of the European Train Control System (ETCS). For this reason, their introduction into service is expected to begin gradually starting in 2028.
The new battery-powered trains will be multiple-unit trains designed for regional transport, with a seating capacity of 157 seats. They will be equipped with the ETCS Level 2 safety system, air conditioning, modern passenger information systems, Wi-Fi, and more comfortable spaces for transporting bicycles and strollers. For passengers, the new multiple units will ensure a quieter and smoother ride, a higher standard of comfort, and better access to modern rail services, including on lines outside the main electrified corridors.
“Slovakia will become the first country in the region to put zero-emission battery-powered electric trains into service. The 16 units will gradually replace older diesel rolling stock and will allow operation on both electrified lines and sections without an overhead power supply. “The project is part of ZSSK’s strategy to develop a modern and sustainable railway that offers better conditions for both passengers and employees,” said Ivana Piňosová, CEO of ZSSK.
The introduction of battery-powered trains represents an effective solution, particularly for Slovakia, where the electrification of the railway infrastructure does not yet cover the entire network. Of the approximately 3,630 km of railway track in the country, only 1,585 km are electrified. The new units will thus allow the benefits of electric traction to be extended to lines where full electrification would require major infrastructure investments. Through this project, ZSSK continues to implement its strategy of modernization, financial consolidation, and the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly passenger rail transport.
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