{"id":769,"date":"2026-07-21T22:12:38","date_gmt":"2026-07-21T22:12:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/?p=769"},"modified":"2026-07-21T22:12:38","modified_gmt":"2026-07-21T22:12:38","slug":"croatia-embarks-on-green-rail-revolution-with-landmark-bemu-order-and-hybrid-charging-infrastructure","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/?p=769","title":{"rendered":"Croatia Embarks on Green Rail Revolution with Landmark BEMU Order and Hybrid Charging Infrastructure"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>Zagreb, Croatia \u2013 July 17, 2026<\/strong> \u2013 In a significant stride towards modernising its national railway network and championing sustainable transport, Croatian passenger rail operator H\u017d Putni\u010dki prijevoz (H\u017dPP) has officially inked a transformative contract. The agreement with domestic manufacturer Kon\u010dar \u2013 Electric Vehicles secures the delivery of six cutting-edge battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) and, crucially, heralds the construction of Croatia\u2019s inaugural hybrid charging station, strategically located at the Kotoriba railway station. This landmark investment, valued at EUR 53.6 million, is fully underwritten by the European Union\u2019s Modernisation Fund, underscoring a robust commitment to decarbonisation and the future of Croatian mobility.<\/p>\n<p>The procurement of these advanced BEMUs marks a pivotal moment for Croatia&#8217;s public transport infrastructure. Designed to seamlessly operate on both electrified and non-electrified lines, these trains promise to revolutionise regional travel, eliminating the need for cumbersome traction changes and significantly enhancing passenger comfort and service quality. The accompanying hybrid charging station at Kotoriba, featuring an integrated photovoltaic power plant and energy storage system, represents a pioneering approach to sustainable energy provision for the rail sector, setting a precedent for future developments across the nation.<\/p>\n<h3>Main Facts: A Dual Leap Forward for Croatian Rail<\/h3>\n<p>The contract, signed on July 16, 2026, between H\u017dPP and Kon\u010dar \u2013 Electric Vehicles, represents a dual investment in modern rolling stock and sustainable energy infrastructure. At its core, the agreement encompasses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Six Battery-Electric Multiple Units (BEMUs):<\/strong> These state-of-the-art trains are designed for dual-mode operation, capable of drawing power from overhead catenary systems on electrified lines and utilising onboard batteries for non-electrified segments. This flexibility is critical for bridging gaps in Croatia&#8217;s diverse rail network.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Croatia&#8217;s First Hybrid Charging Station:<\/strong> To be constructed at Kotoriba railway station, this facility will be equipped with a photovoltaic (PV) power plant and an advanced energy storage system. This innovative design ensures a sustainable and resilient power supply for the new BEMU fleet, leveraging renewable energy sources.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Significant Investment:<\/strong> The total value of the contract stands at EUR 53.6 million.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Full EU Funding:<\/strong> The entire project is fully supported by the European Union\u2019s Modernisation Fund, an instrument dedicated to assisting EU member states in modernising their energy systems and improving energy efficiency.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Timeline:<\/strong> The new BEMUs are projected to enter service in phases, starting in 2028 and continuing into early 2029. The charging station is expected to be operational in tandem with the train deliveries.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategic Impact:<\/strong> The initiative is poised to significantly reduce carbon emissions from the transport sector, advance sustainable rail transport, and enhance the overall competitiveness and environmental profile of Croatia&#8217;s economy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This comprehensive approach addresses both the immediate need for modern, efficient trains and the long-term imperative for sustainable, green infrastructure, positioning Croatia at the forefront of European rail innovation.<\/p>\n<h3>Chronology: From Tender to Transformative Contract<\/h3>\n<p>The journey to this significant agreement has been a meticulously planned process, reflecting Croatia&#8217;s strategic vision for its railway future.<\/p>\n<p>The initial impetus for this modernisation push dates back to May 2026, when H\u017dPP, seeking to bolster its fleet with environmentally friendly and versatile rolling stock, officially launched a tender for the procurement of six battery-electric multiple units. The tender specifically targeted solutions that could navigate Croatia&#8217;s mixed rail network, which includes both electrified and non-electrified lines, thereby eliminating operational inefficiencies associated with changing traction types.<\/p>\n<p>Following a thorough evaluation process, Kon\u010dar \u2013 Electric Vehicles, a prominent Croatian manufacturer with a strong track record in rail technology, emerged as the successful bidder. Their proposal not only met the technical specifications for the BEMUs but also included the innovative component of a hybrid charging station, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainable rail operations.<\/p>\n<p>The culmination of this process occurred on July 16, 2026, with the formal signing of the contract between Kon\u010dar \u2013 Electric Vehicles and H\u017dPP. This ceremony was not merely a contractual formality but a significant political event, attended by high-ranking government officials who underscored the project&#8217;s national importance.<\/p>\n<p>Concurrently with the procurement contract, a crucial financing agreement was also signed. This agreement officially confirmed the full support from the European Union\u2019s Modernisation Fund, ensuring the financial viability of the EUR 53.6 million investment. The presence of key ministers and the Prime Minister at the signing ceremony highlighted the strong governmental backing and strategic alignment with broader national and EU climate objectives.<\/p>\n<p>The next phases of the project will involve the detailed design and manufacturing of the BEMUs by Kon\u010dar, along with the construction of the hybrid charging station at Kotoriba. H\u017dPP anticipates that the new battery-electric multiple units will progressively be integrated into service across the Croatian rail network, primarily serving northern Croatia, starting in 2028 and concluding with the full fleet deployment by early 2029. This timeline allows for comprehensive testing and integration, ensuring a seamless transition and optimal performance of the new, greener fleet.<\/p>\n<h3>Supporting Data: A Deep Dive into Technology, Capacity, and Sustainability<\/h3>\n<p>The EUR 53.6 million investment is a multi-faceted project, integrating advanced rolling stock with pioneering energy infrastructure. The technical specifications and operational capabilities of the Kon\u010dar BEMUs, coupled with the innovative design of the Kotoriba charging station, illustrate a forward-thinking approach to modern rail transport.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"article-inline-figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.railwaypro.com\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/HZPP-contract.jpg\" alt=\"Croatia signs contract for Kon\u010dar BEMUs and first hybrid charging station\" class=\"article-inline-img\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><strong>The Kon\u010dar BEMUs: Versatility and Efficiency<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The six new battery-electric multiple units are designed as true workhorses for Croatia\u2019s varied rail landscape. Their most defining feature is their dual-mode capability:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Battery Operation (Non-Electrified Lines):<\/strong> On sections of the network currently lacking overhead electrification, the BEMUs will operate purely on battery power, achieving speeds of up to 120 km\/h. This eliminates the reliance on diesel locomotives for these routes, directly contributing to a significant reduction in local emissions and noise pollution. The onboard battery systems are engineered for efficiency and sufficient range to cover typical regional routes without requiring frequent recharging.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Catenary Operation (Electrified Lines):<\/strong> When traversing electrified routes, the trains will seamlessly switch to drawing power from the overhead catenary system, allowing them to reach higher speeds of up to 160 km\/h. This not only maximises operational efficiency but also ensures that the trains can fully utilise the existing electrified infrastructure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Recharging Strategy:<\/strong> The batteries will be dynamically recharged in two primary ways:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>From Overhead Line:<\/strong> While operating on electrified sections, the trains will simultaneously recharge their batteries, essentially &quot;topping up&quot; their energy reserves for upcoming non-electrified segments. This intelligent energy management system optimises battery usage and extends the operational range.<\/li>\n<li><strong>At Dedicated Charging Stations:<\/strong> The new hybrid charging station at Kotoriba, and potentially future similar facilities, will provide dedicated fast-charging capabilities, ensuring the fleet remains fully operational and ready for service.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Passenger-Centric Design:<\/strong> Beyond their environmental and operational advantages, the Kon\u010dar BEMUs are engineered with passenger comfort and accessibility at their core:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Capacity:<\/strong> Each train will offer 150 comfortable seats, catering to the needs of regional commuters and travellers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Flexibility:<\/strong> The design allows for multiple units to be coupled together, providing increased capacity during peak hours or for special events, thereby adapting to fluctuating passenger demand.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Accessibility:<\/strong> Full accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility is a standard feature, including ramps, designated spaces, and accessible restrooms, ensuring inclusive travel for all.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Modern Amenities:<\/strong> Passengers will benefit from free Wi-Fi connectivity, power sockets for charging electronic devices, and advanced passenger information systems that provide real-time updates on routes, schedules, and connections. These features are increasingly vital for modern travellers and significantly enhance the overall journey experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Kotoriba Hybrid Charging Station: A Renewable Hub<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The construction of Croatia\u2019s first hybrid charging station at Kotoriba is a pioneering move in sustainable railway infrastructure.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Photovoltaic Power Plant:<\/strong> The station will incorporate a photovoltaic (solar) power plant, harnessing renewable energy directly from the sun. This reduces the reliance on grid electricity, further lowering the carbon footprint associated with train operations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Energy Storage System:<\/strong> An integrated energy storage system (likely large-scale batteries) will complement the solar panels. This system will store excess solar energy for use when sunlight is scarce, ensuring a stable and continuous power supply for train charging. It also provides grid stability benefits, helping to balance energy demand.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategic Location:<\/strong> While the original article doesn&#8217;t detail <em>why<\/em> Kotoriba was chosen, its position in northern Croatia suggests it could serve as a vital hub for routes that combine electrified and non-electrified sections, providing a critical charging point for the new BEMUs operating in the region.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This integrated approach to energy generation and storage ensures that the environmental benefits of the BEMUs are maximised, creating a truly green corridor for Croatian rail transport.<\/p>\n<h3>Official Responses: Unanimous Support for a Greener Future<\/h3>\n<p>The contract signing ceremony was a high-profile event, graced by the presence of key political figures, signifying the strategic importance of this project to Croatia&#8217;s national development and its commitment to European environmental goals. Their statements collectively underscore the multifaceted benefits expected from this investment.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovi\u0107<\/strong> articulated the project\u2019s alignment with broader national and European objectives, stating, &quot;The procurement of the Kon\u010dar battery-electric multiple units is an excellent example of how resources from the Modernisation Fund are being used. Revenues generated through the emissions trading system are invested in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency and strengthen the competitiveness of the Croatian economy. The EUR 53.6 million investment in six battery-electric trains and a charging station at Kotoriba clearly demonstrates this approach.&quot; His remarks highlight the cyclical nature of the EU&#8217;s environmental funding mechanisms, where carbon pricing directly fuels green investments. This strategic use of the Modernisation Fund, derived from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), showcases Croatia&#8217;s proactive stance in channelling environmental revenues into tangible decarbonisation projects that simultaneously bolster economic resilience and foster innovation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butkovi\u0107<\/strong> emphasised the ongoing transformation of Croatia\u2019s rail sector and the importance of domestic industry. &quot;Croatia already has 70 new low-floor trains in service. With this contract, another 25 new trains have now been ordered. At the same time, we are investing more than EUR 1.5 billion in the reconstruction and development of railway infrastructure. Battery trains and battery-electric multiple units already in operation have proved highly successful, and the fact that they are manufactured in Croatia also strengthens the domestic industry.&quot; Minister Butkovi\u0107&#8217;s statement provides crucial context, demonstrating that this BEMU order is part of a much larger, comprehensive investment strategy in rail. The emphasis on domestic manufacturing by Kon\u010dar not only ensures local job creation and technological expertise but also positions Croatia as a contributor to European sustainable transport solutions. The significant EUR 1.5 billion infrastructure investment further illustrates a holistic approach to modernising the entire rail ecosystem, ensuring that the new trains will run on upgraded, efficient tracks.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Minister of Environmental Protection and Green Transition Marija Vu\u010dkovi\u0107<\/strong> looked ahead, stressing the long-term vision for decarbonisation. &quot;This project is one of the best examples of investing simultaneously in environmental protection and transport decarbonisation. We will not stop here. The forthcoming Social Climate Plan also includes funding for 30 additional new trains and three more charging stations.&quot; Her forward-looking statement signals a sustained commitment to green transport initiatives. The mention of the &quot;Social Climate Plan&quot; and future investments underscores a strategic, phased approach to achieving ambitious climate targets, ensuring that this project is not an isolated effort but a foundational step in a broader, ongoing green transition. This commitment extends beyond current projects, promising a continuous evolution towards a more sustainable transport landscape.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"article-inline-figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.railwaypro.com\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/rama-pe-baterie-Koncar-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Croatia signs contract for Kon\u010dar BEMUs and first hybrid charging station\" class=\"article-inline-img\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><strong>H\u017dPP Chief Executive Officer \u017deljko Uki\u0107<\/strong> focused on the direct benefits for passengers and the operator&#8217;s vision. &quot;The ability of the battery-electric multiple units to operate on both electrified and non-electified lines will allow passengers to travel without changing trains while benefiting from a higher level of comfort and service quality. This project represents another important step towards a modern, reliable, accessible and environmentally friendly railway.&quot; Uki\u0107&#8217;s perspective highlights the operational and customer-centric advantages. The elimination of train changes (often a source of delays and inconvenience) coupled with enhanced comfort and service quality directly translates into a superior passenger experience. For H\u017dPP, this means a more efficient and attractive service offering, crucial for encouraging a modal shift from road to rail. His statement encapsulates the ultimate goal: building a railway system that is not only environmentally sound but also highly user-friendly and dependable.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Luka Balen, Director of the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund<\/strong>, also present at the signing, implicitly endorsed the project&#8217;s environmental credentials. While not directly quoted, his presence signifies the alignment of the project with the Fund&#8217;s mandate to support initiatives that protect the environment and promote energy efficiency, further validating the green credentials of the BEMU and charging station investment.<\/p>\n<p>Collectively, these official responses paint a clear picture of a well-conceived, strategically important project that enjoys strong political, financial, and operational backing, poised to deliver significant benefits across environmental, economic, and social spheres.<\/p>\n<h3>Implications: A New Era for Croatian Transport and Beyond<\/h3>\n<p>The acquisition of Kon\u010dar BEMUs and the construction of Croatia\u2019s first hybrid charging station carry profound implications, setting the stage for a transformative period in Croatian transport and offering a blueprint for sustainable development within the European Union.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Decarbonisation and Environmental Leadership:<\/strong><br \/>\nAt the forefront of the implications is the significant contribution to Croatia&#8217;s decarbonisation goals. By replacing older, more polluting diesel trains, the BEMUs will drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollutants. This move aligns perfectly with the ambitious targets of the European Green Deal and the &quot;Fit for 55&quot; package, which aim for a substantial reduction in EU emissions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. Croatia is demonstrating practical leadership by investing in concrete solutions that leverage renewable energy sources for its rail operations, setting a strong example for other member states with mixed rail networks. The hybrid charging station, with its photovoltaic power plant and energy storage, takes this a step further by ensuring that the energy powering these trains is increasingly clean and self-generated, reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-based grid electricity.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Enhanced Passenger Experience and Modal Shift:<\/strong><br \/>\nFor the everyday commuter and traveller, these BEMUs promise a revolution in comfort and convenience. The ability to travel seamlessly across electrified and non-electrified lines without requiring train changes will drastically cut down journey times and reduce travel friction. Modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and improved accessibility will make rail travel a far more attractive option. This enhanced passenger experience is crucial for encouraging a modal shift from private cars to public transport, thereby alleviating road congestion, reducing traffic accidents, and further decreasing transport-related emissions. A modern, reliable, and comfortable rail system is a cornerstone of sustainable urban and regional planning.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Economic Growth and Domestic Industry Reinforcement:<\/strong><br \/>\nThe EUR 53.6 million investment, fully funded by the EU Modernisation Fund, represents a substantial economic injection. The fact that Kon\u010dar, a domestic manufacturer, is producing these trains is a significant boost for Croatia&#8217;s industrial sector. This project supports local jobs, fosters technological expertise, and enhances Kon\u010dar&#8217;s reputation as a leading manufacturer of advanced rail solutions, potentially opening doors for export opportunities within the wider European market. It underscores the value of investing in national capabilities and strengthens the competitiveness of the Croatian economy, as highlighted by Prime Minister Plenkovi\u0107. Furthermore, the broader EUR 1.5 billion investment in rail infrastructure reconstruction and development will generate further economic activity and employment opportunities across the construction and engineering sectors.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Regional Development and Connectivity:<\/strong><br \/>\nThe new BEMUs will primarily serve northern Croatia, a region that stands to benefit significantly from improved rail connectivity. Enhanced transport links can stimulate regional economic development by making it easier for people to commute for work, access education, and for businesses to transport goods. Better rail services can also boost tourism by providing more convenient and eco-friendly access to various destinations. The strategic placement of the Kotoriba charging station further supports this regional focus, creating a key hub for sustainable transport in the area.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Future-Proofing Croatian Rail:<\/strong><br \/>\nThis project is not an isolated initiative but a foundational element of a larger, long-term vision for Croatian rail. Minister Vu\u010dkovi\u0107&#8217;s announcement of the forthcoming Social Climate Plan, which includes funding for an additional 30 new trains and three more charging stations, indicates a sustained commitment to modernising and greening the entire network. This phased approach allows for continuous technological advancements and strategic expansion of sustainable infrastructure. By investing in hybrid technology now, Croatia is future-proofing its rail system against evolving environmental regulations and energy market dynamics, ensuring its transport network remains robust and relevant for decades to come.<\/p>\n<p>In conclusion, the contract for Kon\u010dar BEMUs and Croatia\u2019s first hybrid charging station is more than just a procurement deal; it is a declaration of intent. It signifies Croatia&#8217;s unwavering commitment to embracing a cleaner, more efficient, and passenger-friendly future for its national railway system, firmly embedding itself within the broader European agenda for sustainable development and climate action. This pivotal step will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for further innovation and investment, heralding a new, greener era for Croatian transport.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Zagreb, Croatia \u2013 July 17, 2026 \u2013 In a significant stride towards modernising its national railway network and championing sustainable transport, Croatian passenger rail operator H\u017d Putni\u010dki prijevoz (H\u017dPP) has officially inked a transformative contract. The agreement with domestic manufacturer Kon\u010dar \u2013 Electric Vehicles secures the delivery of six cutting-edge battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) and, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":768,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[44],"tags":[754,756,753,248,353,755,14,242,45,86,35,354,25,46],"class_list":["post-769","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-rolling-stock","tag-bemu","tag-charging","tag-croatia","tag-embarks","tag-green","tag-hybrid","tag-infrastructure","tag-landmark","tag-locomotives","tag-order","tag-rail","tag-revolution","tag-trains","tag-wagons"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/769","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=769"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/769\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/768"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=769"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=769"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/therailchannel.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=769"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}