ZSSK presents modernized double-decker sleeper railcar

Modernized double-decker sleeper railcar has been presented by ZSSK as part of a wider modernization program for night trains and international services.

The Slovak operator introduced the vehicle at the Rail Business Days 2026 international trade fair⁠ in Ostrava, Czech Republic. At the event, Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko outlined its new vision for overnight rail travel in Slovakia, built around the idea that passengers can board in the evening, travel comfortably, and reach their destination rested the next morning.

The modernized car offers a higher level of passenger comfort⁠, including air-conditioned compartments, modern beds, power sockets and USB charging points at every seat, a digital passenger information system, and new premium compartment options.

ZSSK is also adding higher-class accommodation categories that are not currently available on Slovak domestic routes.

ZSSK night trains gain new sleeper standards

Miroslav Klich, Director of the ZSSK Maintenance Division, said the modernization reflects the operator’s intended direction for night rail services.

“Night trains continue to play an important role in European rail transport today. If we want to keep them in the future, we must gradually modernize them. Today we are not just presenting a single car, but the direction in which we want to develop night rail transport in Slovakia—more comfort, more privacy, and better services for passengers. I believe the modernized cars will transform night trains into an attractive option for a broad audience,”

The renewal is also linked to the technical condition of Slovakia’s sleeping-car fleet. Around 30 sleeping cars remain in operation in the country, but most were built in the 1980s. Some no longer have air conditioning and are approaching the end of their service life.

ŽOS Vrútky modernization covers 10 cars

The modernized sleeper cars will also run in the Czech Republic. The first double-decker vehicle was modernized by Slovak company ŽOS Vrútky under a contract covering 10 cars purchased from Deutsche Bahn. The cars were originally manufactured in 1995, and the modernization process will bring night travel up to higher standards.

Michal Vereš, CEO of ŽOS Vrútky, said the work focused on both technical performance and the passenger environment.

“During the modernization process, we didn’t focus solely on the car’s technical specifications. It was important to create a space where passengers would feel comfortable throughout their journey. The result is a modern product that combines the expertise of the Slovak railway industry with the current expectations of travelers,”

International lines to the Czech Republic

The first upgraded vehicles are due to enter service this year on international routes to the Czech Republic. Planned routes include Humenné–Košice–Žilina–Prague and Humenné–Košice–Žilina–Bratislava, strengthening rail links between Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and major European corridors.

The night-train modernization program forms part of Slovakia’s strategy to reduce reliance on long-distance road transport and make rail a more attractive sustainable and competitive option in Central Europe.

ZSSK is also positioning its plans within the wider European revival of night trains. Demand for more sustainable mobility and comfortable long-distance travel has helped bring renewed attention to this segment in recent years.