Latvia to Purchase Battery Trains for Regional Routes

Latvia is investing €104.6 million in the acquisition of nine battery-powered trains and the development of charging infrastructure to modernize rolling stock on routes connecting Riga, Daugavpils, and Cēsis. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The total budget for the project is €123 million, with €104.6 million provided by European Union funds. The remaining amount will be used for local infrastructure development.

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All new trains must enter service no later than 42 months after the contract is signed. This means operations are expected to begin by mid-2028.

Thanks to battery technology, the trains will operate on non-electrified routes, reducing emissions and lowering dependence on diesel fuel.

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The project includes replacing outdated diesel trains from the DR1 series, most of which were manufactured in the 1970s and 1980s. Their technical condition no longer meets modern standards.

In 2023, Latvia’s Ministry of Transport already launched a tender for the purchase of seven battery trains worth €74.5 million. Of the two bids received, only the Czech consortium Škoda Transportation – Škoda Vagonka met the requirements.

The new trains will enhance passenger comfort, ensure stable service, and strengthen transport links between Latvia’s major cities.

This project reflects a commitment to sustainable development, reduced environmental impact, and improved transportation safety. It also sets the stage for further modernization of the national rail network.

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