Czech Railways’ Pendolino: 200 km/h High-Speed Rail Innovations

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Introduction

České dráhy has increased its operational speed, with Pendolino high-speed trains now reaching 200 km/h on the Prague – České Budějovice line. This marks a significant advancement in the Czech Republic’s railway service.

Operational Speed Increase

České dráhy’s Pendolino high-speed trains have exceeded the previous speed limit of 160 km/h, achieving speeds of up to 200 km/h on the Prague – České Budějovice line. According to Michal Krapinec, CEO of České dráhy, the company’s trains, including the ComfortJet and Vectron locomotive, are prepared for speeds up to 230 km/h.

Impact on Travel Times and Infrastructure

The enhanced speed allows passengers to reach České Budějovice from Prague in a record 95 minutes, with return journeys taking 5 minutes less. This speed is achieved through tilting train technology on sections of the southern corridor between Votice and Sudoměřice, and Doubí and Soběslav, which are designed for speeds up to 200 km/h. Minister of Transport Martin Kupka noted the reduction in journey times and increased comfort, which sets a foundation for future high-speed lines where trains could run at up to 320 km/h.

Route and Service Details

The extended Pendolino service to České Budějovice provides direct connections from eastern regions to southern Bohemia. The evening service is linked with train SC 500, operating from Bohumín to Prague, thus creating a direct route connecting Ostrava, Olomouc, Pardubice, Prague, Tábor, and České Budějovice.

Future Developments and Rolling Stock Information

Jiří Svoboda, CEO of the Railway Administration, stated that the speed increase symbolizes a new era for Czech railways. Construction of tunnels between Nemanice and Ševětín will further improve the line and save time for passengers, with tunneling set to begin next year. Alstom has supplied a total of seven high-speed Pendolino units to České dráhy. These 7-car trains provide 27 seats, including 52 in first class, two wheelchair spaces, and three bicycle spaces. The trains have 16 powered axles with a total output of 4,000 kW and a maximum operating speed of 200 km/h.

Conclusion

České dráhy has enhanced its operational speed, with Pendolino high-speed trains now reaching 200 km/h on the Prague – České Budějovice line. This advancement reduces travel times and improves connectivity.

České dráhy

České dráhy is a railway company that operates passenger and freight services in the Czech Republic. The company is utilizing Pendolino high-speed trains to increase operational speeds on the Prague – České Budějovice line, enhancing travel times and connections.

Alstom

Alstom is a global company focused on the railway market, providing a wide range of products and services, including rolling stock, signaling, and infrastructure. They have delivered seven high-speed Pendolino units to České dráhy.

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