HŽPP’s Croatian Rail Upgrade: New Diesel-Electric Trains & Expansion

Introduction

Croatian rail operator HŽ Putnički prijevoz (HŽPP) launched a new diesel-electric train on the Zabok–Krapina–Đurmanec route in the Zagorje Region on October 8, 2025. The inaugural journey, which included State Secretary Žarko Tušek and HŽPP CEO Željko Ukić, was a 31-minute trip from Zabok to Krapina and Đurmanec.

New Train Deployment

The new diesel-electric train connects Krapina, Zabok, and Zagreb, and extends to the Slovenian border at Rogatec. This investment aims to improve rail travel standards in Krapina-Zagorje County. Over the coming months, 13 more new trains will be introduced, including six electro-diesel units next year, connecting Dalmatia with continental Croatia. Night trains to Zabok and Krapina, as well as to Sisak, Karlovac, Križevci, and Ivanić-Grad, will soon be in operation.

Service Enhancement and Passenger Impact

The introduction of the new train aims to raise the quality of service in Krapina-Zagorje County, which handles around two million passengers annually. Out of 37 lines between Zabok, Krapina, and Đurmanec, 28 will now be served by contemporary low-floor trains. Services on the Zabok–Gornja Stubica route will also be upgraded. By early 2028, the delivery of new electro-battery trains is expected, completing the full modernisation of this area. The new trains are essential for commuters and students in the Zabok and wider Zagorje area.

Train Specifications

The new diesel-electric train, manufactured by Končar, meets European standards. The Series 7023 diesel-electric train offers 167 seats and 175 standing places. It features four pairs of double doors, wheelchair ramps, bicycle spaces, audiovisual passenger information systems, CCTV, free Wi-Fi, and a maximum speed of 120 km/h.

Procurement and Future Plans

This new diesel-electric train is part of a contract signed with Končar in 2022 for the delivery of seven DEMUs, financed by a EUR 31 million loan from Eurofima. The final unit is due for delivery by the end of this year. HŽPP also ordered 13 multiple units from Končar this summer, including five diesel-electric trains and four battery-electric trains, expected to be delivered in 2027 and 2028. The operator recently inaugurated the first BEMU.