ABB to supply battery packs to Skoda’s BEMU fleet for České Dráhy

Electrification and automation solutions provider ABB will supply its Traction Battery Pro Series battery packs to Škoda battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) ordered by České Dráhy, Czechia’s national railway operator.

The order, valued at under $20m, was placed in the fourth quarter of 2024.

This marks the “first order” of ABB traction technology by Škoda Group.

The agreement includes the delivery of 195 Pro 8C-850 battery packs for 15 BEMUs and a “comprehensive” 15-year service agreement.

The BEMUs will offer a “practical and immediate solution” to reducing carbon emissions in rail transport, marking a “significant advancement” in the Czech railways’ plans to shift toward more sustainable operations.

Skoda Group COO Zdenek Svata said: “By partnering with ABB, we are supporting the railway industry’s commitment to a net zero future.