ABB is supplying Škoda Group with its compact and lightweight Traction Battery Pro Series for Škoda’s new fleet of electric railcars ordered by the Czech national railway operator, České dráhy.

The initial agreement covers the delivery of 195 Pro 8C-850 battery packs for 15 battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) in addition to a 15-year service agreement. The order, valued at around $20 million, was booked in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The order is the first order for ABB traction technology placed by Škoda Group, and one of several ABB has received for the Traction Battery Pro Series, which was announced in September 2024.

“The Pro Battery Series is designed to suit BEMU applications, particularly in railway networks with partial electrification. This solution enables trains to operate on both electrified and non-electrified sections of track, providing flexibility and environmental benefits without requiring full infrastructure electrification,” ABB stated. “The Series engineered to optimize vehicle performance while significantly reducing maintenance and downtime.”

Source: ABB