The Končar battery train has arrived in regular service on the Virovitica–Bjelovar route, thereby commemorating a milestone date for a transition of Croatia to new, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly railway transport.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Končar Battery Train Enters Regular Service in Croatia
Photo: Ratko Mavar/HŽPP

Končar Battery Train Showcases Technological Progress

The Končar group took delivery of its first two-car low-floor train of class 6012, powered by Leclanché lithium-ion batteries of total capacity of 736 kWh. The battery train has a capacity of running on a distance of about 100 km per single charge, but during testing proved a distance of more than 200 km, proving really great efficiency and endurance.

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It is charged by means of custom-designed 1 MW fixed stations supplied by Končar. A complete charge takes a mere 27 minutes, giving frequent turnrounds. Additionally, multiple-unit operation is provided for by the train, whereby a number of sets are connected to mount passenger demand.

Končar Battery Train Supports Croatia’s Green Transition

The state operator HŽPP initially placed an order for battery and hybrid battery-electric trains in 2022, spending $18.4 million (or €17 million). It signed a new order for four battery, four battery-electric, and five hybrid (diesel + overhead) trainsets for $128 million (or €118 million) in 2024.

It is being funded by the European Investment Bank, a move towards its sustainable mobility and decarbonization of the economies of the European Union. The battery train introduction will allow Croatia to decrease CO₂ emissions, diminish operating expenses, and enhance transport service quality at the regional level.

Končar also intends to increase exports of its electric battery trains to other regional nations, particularly those having a short-termized network of railways. It fortifies the position of Croatia as a regional clean transport technology as well as a rail innovations leader.

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What is the Končar battery train?

It’s a modern electric train powered by lithium-ion batteries with a 736 kWh capacity, capable of traveling up to 200 km without recharging on non-electrified lines.

Can the battery train operate on regular routes?

Yes. It is designed for both autonomous operation and combined service with battery-electric or hybrid trains through multiple-unit control.

Who funds the Končar battery train project in Croatia?

The project is financed by the European Investment Bank, supporting the EU’s long-term goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable rail mobility.

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