Projects

Project registration number: CZ.04.01.01/04/24_029/0000225

Between 2024 and 2028, ČD Cargo, a.s. is implementing a grant-funded project titled “Retrofit of series 163 and 162 locomotives—installation of a second system for operation on the 25 kV / 50 Hz network” This project is being carried out under the Transport Operational Program 2021–2027, as part of the specific objective “Development of a sustainable, smart, safe, and intermodal TEN-T network resilient to climate change.”

The subject of the support is the modification of electric traction vehicles (ETVs) equipped solely for operation on a 3 kV DC power supply system so that they are also capable of operating on a 25 kV/50 Hz AC power supply system. From the perspective of technical parameters and investment costs, the AC power supply system is more advantageous and, according to the approved Concept for the Transition to a Unified Power Supply System, represents the target power supply system for rail lines managed by SŽ.

The goal of the project is to modify eight selected EHV Series 163 locomotives, which are currently designed solely for operation on a 3-kV DC system, so that they can also be operated on a 25-kV/50-Hz AC system. The project will result in greater operational flexibility for the trains, more efficient use of the fleet, and lower operating costs. The project will also enable their continued use beyond 2037, when the transition of lines managed by the Railway Administration to a unified 25 kV/50 Hz power supply system is expected to be completed.

This grant project is co-financed by the European Union’s Cohesion Fund, covering 50% of eligible expenses. The remaining 50% of eligible expenses and all ineligible expenses (including VAT) are covered by the recipient from its own resources.

The total project cost (excluding VAT) is: 161 102 497,60 CZK

The European Union’s contribution is: 80 551 248,50 CZK, i.e., 50 % of the project’s eligible expenses.