PKP Pendolino Tests in Czech Republic: Interoperability & Route Expansion

PKP Intercity’s Pendolino train undergoes **interoperability** testing in the Czech Republic. These **railway** trials evaluate cross-border operations, with expanded services planned for 2026.

PKP Pendolino Tests in Czech Republic: Interoperability & Route Expansion
October 21, 2025 1:54 pm
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Introduction

PKP Intercity’s Pendolino train, unit ED250-001, is undergoing test runs in the Czech Republic from 20 to 22 October in collaboration with České dráhy (ČD) to assess its interoperability with local infrastructure. These trials are a step in verifying the train’s ability to operate safely across various European Union rail systems.

Main Content

Interoperability Testing in the Czech Republic

From 20 to 22 October, PKP Intercity’s Pendolino train is undergoing tests on the Czech railway network. These tests, involving unit ED250-001, are conducted in cooperation with České dráhy (ČD) to evaluate the train’s technical compatibility. These trials are part of a broader interoperability assessment for the rolling stock.

Future Operational Trials

Extended operational trials on Czech infrastructure are scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The deployment of this unit abroad will not impact the regular operation of Express InterCity Premium (EIP) services within Poland.

International Route Certification and Capabilities

PKP Intercity’s Pendolino trains are already certified for international routes to Austria, the Czech Republic, and Germany. The ED250 unit received type approval for operation in the Czech Republic in November 2022 and is authorized to operate at speeds up to 160 km/h, compatible with both 25 kV AC 50 Hz and 3 kV DC power systems.

Planned Service Expansions

From mid-December 2025, PKP Intercity’s Pendolino train will begin serving Zakopane, connecting the Tatra Mountains with the Tricity (Gdańsk–Gdynia–Sopot) via Warsaw and Kraków. During the summer season, the route will be extended to Kołobrzeg. Under the new annual timetable, 12 trains will serve Zakopane – 10 year-round and 2 seasonal. In addition to the EIC Tatry service (Zakopane–Warsaw), a new year-round EIC Kaszub train will operate between Zakopane and Gdynia. A further new service will be the overnight IC Podhalanin, running daily from Zakopane to Świnoujście via Kraków.

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Conclusion

The Pendolino trains are currently undergoing tests in the Czech Republic to ensure interoperability and are certified for international routes. Future plans include expanded services to Zakopane and other locations, with no disruption to existing Express InterCity Premium (EIP) services in Poland.

Company Summary

České dráhy (ČD): The Czech national operator.

PKP Intercity: The company whose Pendolino trains are being tested.

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