Czech Railways (České dráhy) has taken an important step towards making its operations on non-electrified regional lines more efficient and improving the overall reliability of its railway network. The company has launched a public tender to comprehensively modernise its Class 754 diesel-electric locomotives.
Instead of making a major investment in new rolling stock, Czech Railways decided to upgrade its existing fleet after a strategic market analysis, aiming to both extend the service life of locomotives and ensure cost-effectiveness. This modernization drive demonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to diesel traction, while continuing electrification work.
The Critical Role of Class 754 Locomotives
The Class 754 locomotives, also known as “spectacles”, are currently in active service on important regional lines in the Czech Republic. They form the backbone of passenger transport, particularly on busy routes such as Veselí nad Lužnicí – České Velenice and Hradec Králové – Trutnov. They also contribute to the flexibility of the rail network by supporting weekend traffic on the popular tourist line Posázaví Pacific. Specially designed for express passenger routes, these locomotives are crucial for the smooth operation of regional transport.
Modernization of up to 30 Locomotives
The new framework agreement initiated by the Czech Railways covers the modernization of at least 10 Class 30 locomotives in the first phase, up to 754 in total. This comprehensive renovation work aims to update the technological infrastructure of the locomotives, thus providing a more reliable and efficient operation. One of the most important steps of the modernization is that all renewed locomotives will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS). ETCS stands out as a modern signaling and control system that significantly increases railway safety and ensures interoperability between railway networks in different European countries.
Critical Support for Network Continuity
The modernized Class 754 locomotives will continue to carry out passenger transport duties during normal services, as well as playing a critical role in unexpected situations. In particular, during interruptions or infrastructure failures that may occur on the railway network, these renewed diesel locomotives will support the continuity of the network and help minimize disruption to transportation. In the event of problems on electrified lines or lines that are out of service during electrification work, these modernized diesel locomotives will step in as an alternative source of traction power, ensuring the continuity of passenger transportation.
The Value of the Framework Agreement
The budget allocated by the Czech Railways for this important modernization project is also noteworthy. The total value of the framework agreement is estimated at around 138 million dollars (approximately calculated at current exchange rates), depending on the final number of locomotives to be modernized. This investment demonstrates the confidence that the Czech Railways has in its existing fleet and the belief that these locomotives will continue to play an important role in the railway network in the long term.
Investing in Proven Technology
Originally manufactured in Czechoslovakia between 1979 and 1980, the Class 754 locomotives have ideal characteristics for regional express passenger transport with their top speed of 100 km/h and 1.472 kW output. Czech Railways has previously followed a similar strategy, modernising Class 753 locomotives to the 750.7 series and Class 742 locomotives to the 743.2 series. This past experience demonstrates the company’s success in modernising existing rolling stock and using it more efficiently for longer periods of time. This latest investment can also be seen as part of Czech Railways’ long-term strategy based on proven rolling stock experience.
Preparation for the Electric Future and Quality Service
While continuing the electrification of its railway network, Czech Railways aims to provide uninterrupted and high-quality service to its passengers with these strategic investments aimed at renewing and developing its existing diesel fleet. By modernizing its diesel assets and making them more reliable and efficient, the company is ensuring that regional transport continues without disruption even as it moves towards a fully electric future. This approach reflects both the Czech Railways’ efforts to achieve environmental sustainability goals and a service approach that prioritizes passenger satisfaction. Czech Railways’ decision to modernize its Class 754 locomotives stands out as a rational investment strategy and an indicator of its vision to offer passengers a better transport experience in the long term.
