Latvia Invests €89.4 Million in New Battery-Electric Trains from Škoda Group

Latvia Modernizes Rail Fleet with Škoda Battery-Electric Trains

The Autotransporta direkcija (ATD), Latvia's national transport authority, officially awarded Škoda Group an €89.4 million contract on December 11, 2025, for the supply of nine battery-electric multiple-units (BEMUs). This significant investment aims to modernize the country's rail system, replacing an aging fleet of diesel trains and fostering sustainable travel, particularly to boost eco-tourism.

The agreement includes a base order for nine trains, with an option for an additional seven vehicles, spare parts, and staff training, potentially increasing the total contract value to nearly €160 million. Funding for the project is being provided through a combination of the European Union Cohesion Fund and national funds from the Latvian state budget.

Enhanced Passenger Experience and Environmental Benefits

The new BEMUs are designed to significantly improve the passenger experience and reduce the environmental impact of rail travel. Each two-carriage train will feature a low-floor design, ensuring improved accessibility for all passenger groups, including those with wheelchairs. They will offer 188 seats, including 24 in first class, and will be equipped with modern amenities such as climate control, reduced noise and vibration, contemporary restrooms, power sockets, and USB-C charging ports.

A notable upgrade for passengers will be the increased capacity for bicycles, with space for eight bicycles (four vertical, four horizontal) compared to the typical three spaces on older diesel trains. The trains will have a design speed of up to 160 km/h in electric mode and 120 km/h when operating on battery power. This enhanced acceleration is expected to reduce travel times by 15 to 25 minutes on certain routes.

Environmentally, the BEMUs are a crucial step towards greener transport. They are significantly quieter and produce no direct pollution, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions and decreasing Latvia's reliance on fossil fuels. This aligns with broader European goals for sustainable urban mobility and combating climate change.

Strategic Deployment and Tourism Boost

The new battery-electric trains are primarily intended for routes connecting Riga with Daugavpils and Cēsis, where the necessary charging infrastructure will be developed. These BEMUs will replace a portion of Latvia's current fleet of 23 diesel trains, many of which were manufactured between 1980 and 1992.

The introduction of these eco-friendly trains is also expected to significantly boost Latvia's eco-tourism sector. By providing a sustainable and efficient mode of transport, the trains will make it easier for tourists to explore various regions, from the capital Riga to coastal towns like Jurmala and historic cities such as Liepaja. This initiative aims to improve connectivity, revitalize regional tourism by making smaller towns more accessible, and cater to the growing demand for environmentally conscious travel options.

Delivery Timeline and Future Outlook

The first of the new battery-electric trains are scheduled to be deployed in the first half of 2029, with all nine units from the base order expected to be delivered by the end of that year. This order marks a continuation of Škoda Group's cooperation in Latvia, following the successful operation of 32 Škoda 16Ev electric multiple units by the national operator ViVi. The tender process for these BEMUs also saw bids from other manufacturers, including CAF and Stadler Polska.