Better freight trains modernise Czech rail freight, create jobs, improve accessibility of remote regions—and cut emissions
Tomáš Tóth believes the Czech Republic is on track to become one of the largest freight transporters in Europe. With long experience in the rail sector, the ČD Cargo chief executive is determined to revolutionise Czech rail freight, making it more modern and environmentally friendly.
“We want to expand our locomotive fleet by acquiring 50 electric locomotives and 140 freight intermodal wagons, as well as to modernise around 310 older locomotives,” says Tóth, whose Prague-based company transports goods to thousands of locations across Europe. “This change will not only improve the quality and capacity of freight service, but also have a positive impact on the environment.”
By shifting the transport of goods from roads to railways, ČD Cargo will pave the way for greener, better services in the Czech Republic. Its modernised locomotive fleet will be equipped with the European Train Control System, which makes signalling and controls safer. And it will improve freight transport to regions that were previously less accessible by rail.
“Using electric locomotives is in itself green,” says Tóth. “But our operation will also result in reduced vehicle use and will thus contribute to the Czech Republic’s transition to a more environmentally friendly economy.”
The European Investment Bank, which is owned by the 27 EU member states, is loaning CZK 3.43 billion loan (equivalent to €130 million) to expand and modernise its locomotive fleet. That’s just one of many investments in Czechia by the European Union’s financing arm. Last year, we invested €1.87 billion in Czechia.
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