The delivery of the new Skoda trains is one of the most large-scale investments in rolling stock in recent decades – amounting to 326.7 million euros. "With this, we aim to restore the trust of Bulgarian citizens and all guests of our country in the railway," said the Minister of Transport and Communications Korman Ismailov during the presentation of the first new electric multiple unit Skoda for Bulgaria. The official ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Bulgaria, H.E. Miroslav Toman, the CEO of Skoda Group Petr Novotny, as well as former transport ministers.
"The first two trains have already arrived in Bulgaria, and in a few days we expect two more new units," Minister Ismailov stated, pointing out that according to the manufacturer's schedule, deliveries will continue gradually over the coming months, with all 25 trains expected to be delivered by the end of August 2026.
Minister Ismailov explained that after the completion of the necessary certification procedures, the new trains will be phased into operation. "I will be demanding regarding the pace of this process and will insist on its acceleration so that the new multiple-unit trains can begin carrying passengers as early as the summer months," he added.
In this regard, Minister Korman Ismailov initiated a meeting with the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to our country, H.E. Miroslav Toman, and the management of Skoda Group, where the acceleration of the certification and registration process for the new rolling stock was discussed to meet the deadlines set in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Ambassador Toman noted that bringing service maintenance to Bulgaria will lead to the creation of new jobs for qualified Bulgarian specialists for the next 15 years. The two sides agreed to maintain an intensive dialogue and cooperation during the commissioning of the trains.
The delivery of the new multiple-unit trains is carried out under a contract with Skoda Transportation and Škoda Vagonka amounting to 326.7 million euros, fully funded through European programs. The main contract for 20 trains amounts to 261.4 million euros and is funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The additional agreement for 5 more trains is worth 65.3 million euros and is implemented under the "Transport Connectivity" Program 2021–2027.
The train sets are equipped with modern information systems, Wi-Fi, electrical outlets and USB ports, video surveillance, and modern security systems. Full accessibility for people with reduced mobility, as well as spaces for bicycles and baby strollers, is also provided.
Until December this year, the new trains will be used by BDZ-Passenger Services. After December 13, with the entry into force of the new public service contracts, 19 Skoda trains will serve the Western Lot, and 6 trains will serve the Northern and Southern Lots. The new units are expected to carry passengers on some of the busiest routes in the country.
