Latvia has taken a significant step towards modernizing its public transport infrastructure and promoting sustainable travel with the signing of an €89.4 million contract. The national transport authority, Autotransporta direkcija (ATD), awarded the agreement to Škoda Group on December 11, 2025, for the supply of nine advanced battery-electric multiple-units (BEMUs). This initiative is set to transform regional rail services, reduce environmental impact, and boost the country's growing eco-tourism sector.
Modernizing Latvia's Rail Fleet
The core contract covers nine two-car BEMUs, with an option for an additional seven units, potentially increasing the total value to nearly €160 million for up to 16 trains. The acquisition is financed through a combination of national government funds and the European Union's cohesion funds. These new trains are designed to replace aging diesel locomotives, some of which date back to the 1970s and 1980s, significantly upgrading the quality and efficiency of rail travel across Latvia.
The first of these modern BEMUs are scheduled to commence service in the first half of 2029, with all nine base-order trains expected to be delivered by the end of that year. The new fleet will operate primarily on regional routes connecting Riga with cities such as Daugavpils to the southeast and Cēsis to the northeast. Charging infrastructure will be developed along these routes to support the battery-electric operation.
Advanced Features and Passenger Comfort
The BEMUs will be based on Škoda's next-generation regional train platform, specifically adapted for the Baltic markets and the 1,520 mm gauge tracks used in Latvia. Key specifications and passenger amenities include:
- Dual-voltage capability: Operating under 3 kV DC and 25 kV 50 Hz AC power systems.
- Maximum speeds: Up to 160 km/h when connected to overhead lines and 120 km/h in battery mode.
- Seating capacity: Up to 188 passengers, including 24 first-class seats (2+2 configuration) and 164 second-class seats (3+2 configuration).
- Accessibility: A low-floor design with a 600 mm entry height and dedicated spaces for passengers with disabilities, meeting the latest European accessibility standards.
- Bicycle transport: Space for up to eight bicycles.
- Onboard amenities: Air conditioning, reduced noise and vibration, electrical sockets, and USB-C charging points.
These features are expected to significantly enhance passenger comfort and reduce travel times by 15 to 25 minutes compared to the existing diesel-hauled trains.
Boosting Eco-Tourism and Sustainability
The introduction of battery-electric trains aligns with Latvia's broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels within its transport sector. This move supports European goals for sustainable urban mobility and offers a more environmentally friendly travel option for both residents and tourists.
Jānis Lapiņš, Chairman of the Board of ATD, emphasized the investment's role in strengthening railways as 'the backbone of public transport' and improving the quality and accessibility of passenger transport. The new trains are anticipated to attract eco-conscious travelers, providing a comfortable and efficient way to explore Latvia's diverse regions and cultural sites, thereby contributing to the growth of sustainable tourism.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
Excellent move! Cleaner air and better commutes are exactly what we need.
Donatello
Replacing outdated diesel trains with battery-electric ones is a positive step for environmental goals. But, let's hope the projected 15-25 minute time savings actually materialize and aren't just an optimistic estimate.
Leonardo
€89.4 million for only nine trains? Seems incredibly overpriced.
Donatello
While the move to electric trains is commendable for sustainability, the high cost and long wait until 2029 are concerning. I hope the long-term benefits truly outweigh these initial drawbacks.
Leonardo
Another massive contract to a foreign company. Why not support local industry?