Latvia Orders Nine Battery Electric Trains from Škoda Group to Modernize Rail Fleet

Latvia Advances Rail Modernization with Škoda BEMU Order

On December 11, 2025, Latvia's Autotransporta direkcija (ATD), the state-owned public transport authority, officially signed a contract with the Škoda Group for the supply of nine battery electric multiple units (BEMUs). This significant agreement, valued at €89.4 million for the base order, includes an option for an additional seven trains, potentially increasing the total contract value to nearly €160 million, encompassing spare parts and training. The procurement is co-financed by the European Union Cohesion Fund and the Latvian national budget, marking a crucial step in modernizing the country's rail infrastructure.

Replacing Aging Diesel Fleet and Expanding Connectivity

The new BEMUs are slated for delivery by 2029, with the first units expected to enter service in the first half of that year. These modern trains will replace a portion of Latvia's existing diesel fleet, which currently consists of 23 diesel trains manufactured between 1980 and 1992. The BEMUs are designed to operate primarily on non-electrified routes, specifically in the directions of Daugavpils and Cēsis, where new charging infrastructure will be established. The flexibility of these trains allows them to charge via overhead lines on electrified sections or at dedicated charging stations.

Jānis Lapiņš, Chairman of the Board of ATD, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating, 'Battery-powered electric trains represent a significant investment for Latvia, aimed at strengthening the role of railways as the backbone of public transport and improving the quality and accessibility of passenger transport.'

Enhanced Passenger Comfort and Environmental Benefits

The new two-car BEMU units are engineered to significantly improve the passenger experience. Each train will offer 188 seats, including 24 in first class, and feature a low-floor entry design for enhanced accessibility. Passengers can expect modern amenities such as:

• Air conditioning
• Reduced noise and vibration levels
• Modern toilets
• Power sockets and USB-C ports
• Designated spaces for passengers with reduced mobility
• Eight bicycle spaces (four vertical and four horizontal)

The trains will achieve a maximum speed of 160 km/h on electrified tracks and 120 km/h in battery mode. This improved acceleration is projected to reduce travel times by 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the route. Furthermore, the deployment of BEMUs will contribute to environmental sustainability by replacing diesel trains, thereby reducing emissions and lowering dependence on fossil fuels.

A Step Forward in Zero-Emission Mobility

The selection of Škoda Group followed a competitive three-year tender process that also saw bids from CAF and Stadler. These BEMUs will be the first Škoda battery-powered vehicles specifically designed for the 1,520 mm gauge, a standard used in the Baltic region, and will support dual-voltage operation (3 kV DC and 25 kV 50 Hz AC). Petr Novotný, CEO of Škoda Group, commented on the order, stating, 'Our new-generation battery units confirm that clean and efficient regional transport can be a reality today. And this without the need for extensive investment in infrastructure modernisation.' This contract reinforces Škoda Group's growing presence in the Baltic region, building on previous deliveries of electric trains to Latvia and other Baltic states.