Skoda Sofia Metro: Rail Upgrade for Bulgaria with Regenerative Braking

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Introduction

Skoda Group has unveiled its new metro trains for Sofia, Bulgaria, which are designed for modern urban transport and feature air-conditioning and regenerative braking. The trains are part of a contract with Metropoliten EAD for the delivery of eight metro trains, with the first vehicle scheduled for transport to Sofia in November.

Contract and Production Details

Skoda Group officially unveiled a four-car metro train for Sofia at its production site in Pilsen. The contract with Metropoliten EAD is worth nearly EUR 66 million (CZK 1.6 billion) and covers the production of eight four-car metro trains at Skoda Group’s sites in Pilsen and Ostrava. The first vehicle will be transported to Sofia in November, with the entire order expected to be completed in the first half of next year. The second metro is completed and undergoing Factory Acceptance Testing, and the third and fourth metros are in production. Completion of all trains is expected by March–April 2026.

Technical Specifications

The new 80-metre metro trains will feature an automatic speed control system and are powered by three-phase asynchronous traction motors with regenerative braking. Sofia’s metro runs on the standard gauge of 1,435 mm and is powered by a third rail with a DC voltage of 750 ± 250 V. The trains have a maximum design speed of 90 km/h. The trains are designed with high-capacity air-conditioning and barrier-free access, including two spaces for wheelchair users.

Design and Operational Features

The vehicle design has been adapted to the city’s warm climate, ensuring comfort even in the hottest summer months. The trains are designed for low energy consumption and reduced operating costs through the use of regenerative braking. Each car has four double-leaf doors on each side for quick passenger exchange. The trains have a capacity of more than 580 passengers, with approximately 120 seated.

Integration with Sofia Metro System

Sofia Metro, which opened in 1998, operates four lines covering over 52 km with more than 50 stations. The metro carries around 400,000 passengers daily. The new Skoda Group trains will be deployed mainly on lines 1, 2 and 4.

Conclusion

The new metro trains for Sofia, produced by Skoda Group, incorporate features such as air-conditioning, regenerative braking, and accessible design.

The contract includes eight trains, with the first delivery planned for November and completion expected by March–April 2026. The trains will operate on Sofia’s metro lines and are designed to improve passenger comfort and increase capacity.

Company Summary

Skoda Group: A Czech manufacturer that is supplying new metro trains to Sofia.

Metropoliten EAD: The local operator in Sofia that has contracted with Skoda Group for the delivery of eight metro trains.

Technology

Regenerative braking: Technology which feeds recovered energy back into the grid.

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