ČD ComfortJet Upgrade: Prague-Berlin Rail & Future Expansion

České dráhy Elevates International Travel with ComfortJet Fleet Upgrade

In a move signaling its commitment to modernizing its international rail network, Czech Railways (České dráhy, ČD) is upgrading its flagship Ex5 Berliner route, connecting Prague, Berlin, and Hamburg, to exclusively feature its state-of-the-art ComfortJet long-distance trains. This transition, effective from the end of July, will see the ComfortJet fleet replace existing rolling stock, enhancing passenger comfort and signaling a new era of railway travel across Central Europe. This article will delve into the details of the upgrade, the new ComfortJet’s features, the reassignment of existing rolling stock, and the strategic vision ČD holds for its future international operations.

Who is involved? České dráhy (ČD), the national railway operator of the Czech Republic. What is happening? The upgrade of the Ex5 Berliner route to exclusively use ComfortJet trains. When is this happening? From the end of July. Where is this taking place? On the Ex5 Berliner route, connecting Prague, Berlin, and Hamburg, as well as on selected domestic routes. Why is this happening? To enhance passenger comfort and modernize ČD’s long-distance fleet. How is this happening? By deploying ComfortJet trains and reassigning existing rolling stock to domestic services.

Enhanced Passenger Experience: ComfortJet’s Modern Features

The ComfortJet trains represent a significant leap forward in passenger comfort and convenience. Each nine-car ComfortJet unit accommodates 555 passengers, with 99 seats in first class and 18 in the restaurant car. This is a considerable improvement over the previous rolling stock. The trains, approximately 237 meters long, are designed for high-speed operation, reaching speeds of up to 230 km/h on suitable high-speed corridors. Passengers will experience a superior journey with modern amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, and spacious seating configurations, ensuring a more comfortable and productive travel experience. The implementation of the ComfortJet fleet reflects ČD’s dedication to meeting the evolving expectations of modern travelers and positions the railway as a competitive mode of transport across Europe. The trains are powered by modified Siemens Vectron locomotives, enhancing their efficiency and reliability.

Rolling Stock Reallocation: Optimizing Domestic Services

The existing rolling stock from the Ex5 Berliner route is not being retired. Instead, ČD is strategically reallocating these trains to enhance comfort on selected domestic express routes. This move demonstrates ČD’s commitment to improving the overall passenger experience across its entire network. By introducing the existing EuroCity-compliant coaches to domestic long-distance routes, ČD aims to provide a consistent level of comfort and service for passengers throughout the Czech Republic. This redistribution is a key element of ČD’s broader strategy to modernize its entire fleet and align rolling stock with the specific demands of different routes. The reallocation will provide more modern features, such as power outlets, and offer passengers a smoother and more pleasant travel experience. This multi-pronged approach demonstrates a strategic optimization of existing resources.

Berlin Route Operations and Timetable Adjustments

Due to the ongoing closure of the Berlin–Hamburg line, the ComfortJet trains terminating in Berlin for the next nine months. Temporary operational adjustments are in place to accommodate this infrastructure project. Specifically, the eight-car ComfortJet formations will operate on three key train pairs. The eight-car configurations, temporarily supplemented by the original WRmz815 restaurant cars, allow for flexibility while adhering to the timetable. All other trains on the Prague–Berlin route, except EC 172/173 Hungaria operated by Hungarian rolling stock, will be served by nine-car ComfortJet units. These operational adjustments illustrate ČD’s proactive management and the adaptability of the ComfortJet fleet, ensuring continued service throughout ongoing infrastructure projects.

Future Expansion: The Backbone of International Rail

ČD views the ComfortJet fleet as the cornerstone of its international long-distance operations. Beyond the current Berlin route, the trains will soon be deployed on services to Villach in Austria, Bratislava, Budapest, and, by mid-2025, Copenhagen. This strategic expansion highlights ČD’s ambition to strengthen its position in the European rail market and provide greater connectivity. The operator has ordered 20 ComfortJet trainsets from the Siemens–Škoda consortium. So far, seven nine-car and five eight-car units have been received. With the continued delivery of new trains, ČD is set to expand its international network, providing passengers with a high-quality, sustainable, and convenient travel option connecting them with destinations across Europe. The move towards the ComfortJet fleet is a cornerstone of ČD’s future strategy, supporting its ambition to connect over 120 destinations across eight European countries, including Germany, Austria, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Croatia.

Conclusion

The deployment of the ComfortJet fleet on the Ex5 Berliner route represents a pivotal moment for Czech Railways, demonstrating its commitment to elevating the passenger experience and modernizing its international rail services. By upgrading to ComfortJet trains, ČD is investing in passenger comfort, increased efficiency, and a sustainable vision for rail travel across Europe. The strategic reallocation of existing rolling stock to domestic routes underscores ČD’s broader commitment to enhancing the overall quality of its rail network. The strategic rollout of the ComfortJet fleet, coupled with expansion plans to other key European destinations, positions ČD as a leader in the European rail market, connecting a vast network of cities. The ongoing collaboration with the Siemens–Škoda consortium demonstrates the effectiveness of industry partnerships. The future looks promising for ČD, with the ComfortJet fleet acting as the cornerstone of its ambitious expansion strategy and solidifying its position as a crucial player in the European railway sector.

Company Summary

České dráhy (ČD) is the national railway operator of the Czech Republic. Founded in 1993 following the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, ČD operates a comprehensive network of passenger and freight rail services. Its core business focuses on passenger transport, connecting major cities and offering international services, while also managing freight operations through its subsidiary, ČD Cargo. ČD plays a critical role in Czech transport infrastructure. It’s heavily investing in modernizing its fleet and infrastructure to improve service and enhance passenger experience. The current ComfortJet fleet upgrade, and the associated infrastructure developments, demonstrate the strategic importance that ČD places on its continued growth.