Leo Express and Renfe Disrupt Czech-Slovak Rail with New €4 Talgo Fleet

Leo Express Talgo trains were introduced on April 23. The official presentation came ahead of their planned entry into service on April 30. The trains are scheduled to connect destinations in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Before the launch, Leo Express held a dedicated event. It showed the train interiors and passenger services. The trains can be seen in Prague. In addition, they can be seen in Pardubice, Olomouc, Otrokovice, Staré Město u Uherského Hradiště, Hodonín, and Břeclav. Later, they will also appear at Bratislava main station.

Leo Express Talgo trains on Czech-Slovak routes

The new Talgo fleet will operate on the Prague–Olomouc–Bratislava and Prague–Ostrava–Prešov routes.

“Leo Express is bringing innovation to the rail market in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Low-floor accessibility and exceptional passenger space, along with the passive tilting system based on independent wheels, are unique in Central Europe. These trains will also run on the Prague–Ostrava–Žilina–Prešov route and offer modern services, including a bistro car and Business and Economy classes,” said Peter Köhler, CEO of Leo Express.

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The presentation was attended by media representatives, partners, and representatives of Renfe. Álvaro Fernández Heredia, CEO of the Renfe Group, said: “We are very pleased with this collaboration with Leo Express, which allows us to add new strategic routes and strengthen our presence in Central Europe.”

Tickets for the services are already on sale. Fares start from EUR 4 for both domestic and international journeys.

Comfort and accessibility on board

The Talgo trains offer wide seat spacing, a low-floor layout, and full accessibility. Catering is available through seat delivery and service from a bistro car.

Each Talgo unit operated by Leo Express consists of 13 cars and can carry around 350 passengers. The trains use special articulated bogies with independently mounted wheels. That arrangement enables gauge change while moving. Their low centre of gravity and passive tilting system are intended to support passenger comfort, including on curved sections of track.

The trains can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. Traction is provided by Siemens Mobility’s modern Vectron multi-system locomotives.

Inside, the fleet has been fully modernized and adapted with Leo Express visual branding. Passengers have access to open-plan interiors, comfortable seating, and leather headrests. In Economy class, the distance between seats reaches up to one metre. The space is comparable with first class on some other operators.

Business, Economy and passenger services

The trains include two travel classes: Economy with 308 seats and Business with 40 seats. Also, quiet zones are available for passengers seeking a calmer setting for work or rest.

Onboard amenities include food ordering from the seat. They also include a mobile minibar and a modern bistro car. Some trainsets also feature vending machines for snacks and drinks. They also include a microwave and a water dispenser. In Business Class, passengers can use a self-service coffee and beverage system.

Family facilities include a dedicated children’s area and space for strollers. The family facilities also include passenger amenities aimed at younger travellers. These include loyalty programmes for children, special menus, and recreational activities during the journey.

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