Czech Railways Launches High Speed Pendolino Trains on Upgraded Prague-Ceske Budejovice Line for Faster Travel

Czech Railways has introduced high-speed Pendolino trains on the upgraded main line between Prague and České Budějovice in southern Bohemia. This new service allows for passenger trains to operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, marking a significant improvement in the region’s rail services.

Faster Journey Times and Improved Services

The new high-speed service began on September 1, 2025, on the sections between Votice – Sudoměřice and Soběslav, with Pendolino trains operating at 200 km/h. This contrasts with conventional trains that remain limited to a maximum of 160 km/h. The journey time for the 164-kilometer route between Prague and České Budějovice has been reduced to 1 hour and 35 minutes, with the return journey being 5 minutes faster. In comparison, conventional Eurocity services typically take around 1 hour and 39 minutes.

The upgraded rail line has undergone significant improvements, including the construction of new tunnel sections to bypass curves. These changes are part of a broader modernization effort, including the installation of ETCS (European Train Control System) signaling, which will enhance train safety and efficiency.

New Fleet of Stadler Pendolino Trains

The new service is being operated with a fleet of Pendolino tilting trains, which will provide increased comfort and capacity for passengers. Each train is 70 meters long and can carry 180 passengers, offering more seating compared to the previous fleet. The trains also feature six pairs of extra-wide doors to reduce station dwell times and improve efficiency during boarding and alighting.

In addition to these features, the Pendolino trains are equipped with multifunctional spaces for wheelchairs, strollers, bicycles, and luggage. The trains also provide accessible toilets for passengers with reduced mobility, making them more inclusive for all travelers.

Financing and Future Expansion Plans

The Pendolino trains are part of a long-term plan by Czech Railways to modernize its rail network. The new fleet is financed and owned by the regional transport authority, with the leasing model allowing for future contract extensions. The trains are expected to remain in service for the next 30 years, ensuring that Czech Railways can continue to offer high-speed services on this route and others in the future.

Czech Railways has also announced plans to continue expanding its high-speed rail network, aiming for future services that will run at speeds of up to 320 km/h. This vision for high-speed rail in the Czech Republic is part of broader efforts to improve sustainability, reduce emissions, and provide a reliable and efficient alternative to private car travel.

A Competitive and Sustainable Transport Option

The introduction of the Pendolino trains and the upgrades to the Prague – České Budějovice line are expected to increase the competitiveness of rail travel in the region. By providing faster journey times and more comfortable services, Czech Railways aims to attract more passengers to train services, helping to reduce road congestion and promote sustainable transport options.

The new trains and infrastructure improvements will also contribute to the region’s economic development by improving connectivity between major cities and reducing travel times for both business and leisure travelers. The introduction of high-speed rail is seen as an important step in transforming the Czech Republic into a hub for modern, efficient, and sustainable transport.

Conclusion: A New Era for Czech Railways

The launch of the high-speed Pendolino trains on the Prague-Ceske Budejovice line represents a major milestone for Czech Railways. The upgraded infrastructure, combined with the new fleet of modern trains, offers a faster, more efficient, and comfortable travel experience for passengers. This development is just the beginning, as the Czech Republic looks to further expand its high-speed rail network, paving the way for even faster and more sustainable transportation options in the future.

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