The project for the procurement of new battery electric trains (BEMU) has moved to the next stage. The Central Finance and Contracts Agency (CFLA) has completed its review of the procurement procedure, finding no violations, and has approved the payment of €17 million in advance to the manufacturer Škoda Group. The Road Transport Directorate (ATD) stated that the CFLA's conclusion confirms the procurement's compliance with legal requirements and allows the project to proceed without altering the approved schedule. At the same time, the opportunity to utilize the European Union funding provided for in the project is opened, as the positive conclusion was one of the necessary conditions for further progress of the project. The advance payment is stipulated in the contract terms and, as noted by the ATD, will allow Škoda Group to continue the production of trains according to the agreed timelines. The new battery electric trains are intended for routes where the railway is not yet electrified. With the ability to operate both from the overhead contact line and from batteries, they will be able to replace diesel trains without the need for new infrastructure. This means that in the future, passengers will be able to use more modern and environmentally friendly trains on regional routes where diesel trains are currently in use. The CFLA's review began in February 2026 and included an analysis of all procurement documentation and compliance with procedures. The contract for the supply of nine battery electric trains worth €89.4 million was signed with the Czech consortium Škoda Transportation – Škoda Vagonka in December of last year. According to the agreement, the delivery of the trains must be completed by 2029. The document also provides for the possibility of purchasing an additional seven trains if additional funding is secured.
