Projects

Project registration number: CZ.04.01.01/04/23_018/0000119

Between 2024 and 2028, ČD Cargo, a.s. is implementing a grant-funded project entitled “Fitting selected ČD Cargo, a.s. locomotives with ETCS L2B3 on-board units – Project 1”. This project is being carried out under the Transport Operational Programme 2021–2027, as part of the specific objective “Development of a sustainable, smart, safe and intermodal TEN-T network resilient to climate change”.

The aim of the project is to fit Class 242, 363 (following conversion from Class 163 locomotives) and 753.6 traction units with the ETCS train protection system (Level 2, Baseline 3, version 3.4.0), which is linked to the gradual implementation of the fixed-track ETCS infrastructure on selected lines in the Czech Republic. Fitting these traction units with the European ETCS train control system will ensure greater operational safety and interoperability, leading to a safer and more unified railway area, not only within the Czech Republic.

The aim of the project is to fit a total of 32 traction units of the 242, 363 (following conversion from 163-series locomotives) and 753.6 series, which are currently equipped only with the national train control system, with the ETCS Level 2 (ETCS L2) train control system, version 3.4.0. The reason for this is to achieve greater safety in rail transport and to ensure that traction units can also be used on lines equipped with the ETCS system, thereby ensuring greater interoperability. Exclusive operation under ETCS supervision commenced in the Czech Republic on 1 January 2025 and is gradually being extended to other sections of the backbone network.

The project will result in 32 modernised traction units equipped with an on-board ETCS unit, which will be able to operate on lines with ETCS-only operation both in the Czech Republic and abroad.

This grant-funded project is co-financed by the European Union’s Cohesion Fund, covering 85 % of eligible expenditure. The remaining 15 % of eligible expenditure and all ineligible expenditure (including VAT) are covered by the beneficiary from its own resources.

The total project cost (excluding VAT) is: 437,531,480.02 CZK

The total eligible costs of ČD Cargo, a.s. for the project amount to: 322,066,391.76 CZK.

The European Union’s contribution amounts to: 273,756,433.00 CZK, i.e. 85 % of the project’s eligible expenditure and 63 % of the project’s total costs.