PESA Completes 200 km/h Tests for RegioJet at Velim

BYDGOSZCZ, POLAND / VELIM, CZECH REPUBLIC – PESA Bydgoszcz announced in early June 2026 that its twin‑unit EMU 666 and EMU 667 reached 200 km/h for the first time during traction tests at the Velim Test Centre. The milestone clears a critical certification hurdle for Czech private operator RegioJet, whose first commercial services with the new trains remain scheduled for December 2026.

What Are the Technical Specifications?

The PESA EMU 666/667 is a multi‑system electric multiple unit designed for a maximum speed of 200 km/h and capable of running under both 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC overhead electrification, meeting European TSI interoperability requirements. Each trainset carries ETCS Level 2 signalling and offers first- and second‑class seating, dedicated compartments for families with children, a kitchen area and a bar – features tailored for interregional cross‑border services.

Key Technical Data

Where Does This Technology Stand in the Market?

The PESA EMU 666/667 enters a competitive Central European interregional segment already served by Alstom’s Coradia Stream and Stadler’s FLIRT family. Alstom’s Coradia Stream offers 200 km/h dual‑voltage variants with orders from operators in Italy and the Netherlands (Source: Alstom, 2024), while Stadler’s FLIRT3 and FLIRT4 platforms have demonstrated 200 km/h capability and multi‑system operation across several EU markets, including Czech Railways’ fleet (Source: Stadler, 2025). Unlike those established platforms, the PESA EMU is a new‑built design whose first commercial order comes from RegioJet, though no additional fleet commitments have been disclosed. The train’s testing at Velim coincides with a broader push in European fleet modernisation – in June 2026, the Tyne & Wear Metro began retiring its last first‑generation trains, replacing them with a new Stadler fleet (Source: RailBusinessUK, 2026). Meanwhile, the Czech railway signalling market is projected to grow, fuelled by demand for IIoT and modular automation solutions (Source: IndexBox, 2025), creating a supportive environment for ETCS Level 2‑equipped vehicles like the PESA EMU.

Note: The contract value between PESA and RegioJet was not publicly disclosed. Comparable vehicle‑speed‑test data for 2024–2025 EMU deliveries was not available at the time of publication.

Editor’s Analysis

PESA’s 200 km/h milestone at Velim strengthens the manufacturer’s ability to deliver interoperable trains for private operators targeting cross‑border routes, a niche where RegioJet is expanding. The pairing of dual‑voltage capability with ETCS Level 2 aligns with Central Europe’s infrastructure upgrade cycle, and the December 2026 service launch will test whether a new platform can win repeat orders in a market dominated by Alstom and Stadler. RegioJet’s choice also underscores private‑operator confidence in interregional services at a moment when the Czech signalling sector is moving toward modular, software‑based solutions.

FAQ

Q: When will the PESA EMU enter passenger service?
A: The first commercial services for RegioJet are scheduled for December 2026, following the completion of ongoing technical and operational checks.

Q: What is the top speed of the EMU 666/667?
A: The trains are designed for a maximum speed of 200 km/h, which was successfully verified during tests at the Velim Test Center in June 2026.

Q: On which electrification systems can the trains run?
A: The EMU is equipped for both 3 kV DC and 25 kV AC overhead systems, enabling operation on international and cross‑border corridors.

Q: What onboard facilities will passengers find?
A: The trains will offer first- and second‑class seating, dedicated spaces for families with children, a kitchen area and a bar.

Q: How does this train compare to other European EMUs?
A: It competes directly with Alstom’s Coradia Stream and Stadler’s FLIRT, offering comparable multi‑system capability and 200 km/h top speed, while equipping ETCS Level 2 as standard.