PESA Tests First 200 km/h EMU for RegioJet in Czech Republic

VELIM, Czech Republic – PESA Bydgoszcz successfully completed high-speed tests on its new electric multiple unit (EMU) for RegioJet, with the train hitting 200 km/h on the Velim rail test circuit, the Polish manufacturer confirmed. The tests validated acceleration, stability, and dynamic behaviour, keeping the project on track for first commercial passenger services in December 2026. The two multi-system units, designated EMU 666 and EMU 667, will operate on both 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC networks, enabling international and cross-border routes.

What Are the Technical Specifications?

The new PESA platform is designed for a maximum speed of 200 km/h and complies with European TSI interoperability standards. It is equipped with ETCS Level 2 signalling, first- and second-class seating, dedicated spaces for families with children, and catering facilities including a kitchen and bar. The manufacturer did not disclose traction power ratings, energy consumption figures, or train formation length at the time of the announcement.

Key Technical Data

Where Does This Technology Stand in the Market?

PESA’s EMU enters a segment where multi-system 200 km/h regional trains are well established. Stadler’s FLIRT series, with over 2,500 units sold, offers multi-voltage variants operating at 200 km/h for operators such as SBB and Leo Express (Source: Stadler Rail, 2025). Siemens’ Desiro ML similarly provides dual-voltage capability and is deployed by ÖBB and others (Source: Siemens Mobility, 2025). Alstom’s Coradia Stream family also competes in this speed class but typically focuses on single-system configurations. PESA’s advantage lies in its deepening partnership with RegioJet, a growing private operator active on regional and international routes. The Czech railway signalling market is projected to expand significantly by 2025, driven by ETCS Level 2 rollouts and EU-funded modernisation (Source: IndexBox, 2025), creating a favourable backdrop for new fleets with on-board ETCS. In a separate development, the Irizar ie tram electric bus achieved a 1,000 kg weight cut and 10% energy saving compared to earlier platforms, reflecting a broader industry trend toward lighter, more efficient electric transit designs (Source: Irizar e-mobility, 2026). PESA has not disclosed whether its new EMU platform incorporates comparable weight or energy efficiency gains.

Editor’s Analysis

This milestone demonstrates PESA’s ability to deliver a 200 km/h multi-system EMU tailored for Central Europe’s liberalized rail market. RegioJet’s expansion strategy and increasing corridor openings under EU competition rules raise demand for interoperable rolling stock. The close engineering collaboration between Polish and Czech teams strengthens PESA’s position as a regional alternative to Western European suppliers, potentially opening doors in Slovakia and Hungary where cross-border services face similar technical requirements. The rollout also aligns with the Czech Republic’s scheduled ETCS infrastructure upgrades, ensuring the new trains will be compliant from day one.

FAQ

Q: What is the top speed of the new PESA EMU for RegioJet?
A: The train reached 200 km/h during certification tests at the Velim Test Center, matching its designed maximum speed.

Q: When will passengers be able to travel on these new trains?
A: The first commercial services are scheduled for December 2026, following completion of all remaining technical and operational checks.

Q: Which international routes will the RegioJet EMU 666/667 serve?
A: RegioJet has not yet publicly confirmed specific cross-border routes, but the 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC multi-system capability allows operation on Czech domestic corridors as well as connections to neighbouring countries.