Developed under the Application of Green Technologies in Railway Passenger Transport project and supported by EU funds via the National Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021–2026, this battery electric multiple unit represents a cornerstone of Croatia’s sustainable transport strategy. Alongside the train, the project also includes the production of another battery-powered unit and the setup of six charging stations at railway hubs in Split, Osijek, Varaždin, Bjelovar, Virovitica, and Pula. The €17.1 million project, co-financed with €13.3 million from EU sources, was executed by KONČAR – Electric Vehicles, entrusted with producing the battery-electric trainsets and installing the corresponding charging infrastructure.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Oleg Butković addressed the gathering, stating: „This is a historic moment - not only for Croatian railways, but for the broader economy. The rollout of the battery electric multiple unit marks a new chapter in the shift toward green and smart mobility. Signed over two years ago, this project reflects the momentum of our national railway modernization – real, measurable progress that’s already reshaping the system.“

He further noted that the expansion of the fleet to 63 low-floor trains, with over half introduced in the past three to four years, reflects the government's sustained commitment to investing in modern, accessible public transport.

The acquisition of these trains supports the organization of sustainable rail passenger services on non-electrified lines using electric energy. The broader application of green technologies in the railway sector enhances system-wide energy efficiency and helps reduce both noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

„This train signifies a breakthrough in our efforts to renew rolling stock on non-electrified lines, offering an eco-friendly transport solution. The Zagreb–Bjelovar route demonstrates its dual-mode capability: 44 kilometers are covered under electrified overhead lines up to Gradec, while the final 30 kilometers to Bjelovar are powered by the train’s onboard battery system. We are also planning a follow-up project aimed at acquiring 13 additional trains featuring hybrid and alternative propulsion technologies,“ stated Željko Ukić, President of the Management Board of HŽ Passenger Transport.

„The introduction of the battery electric multiple unit marks a pivotal advancement for Croatian industry, both technologically and environmentally. It combines high-capacity energy storage with predictable energy usage profiles, laying the foundation for intelligent optimization of fleet operations and charging infrastructure. We are currently developing a centralized platform to enable system-wide coordination. KONČAR’s integrated approach, rooted in our expertise across energy, mobility, and infrastructure, ensures the delivery of efficient, future-ready rail solutions,” remarked Gordan Kolak, our CEO, reflecting on the company’s role in the project.

This initiative forms part of the ongoing modernization of HŽ Passenger Transport’s rolling stock, with the objective of strengthening local and regional mobility. It supports the development of a more efficient and competitive rail passenger system, contributing directly to the sustainability and resilience of the national transport infrastructure.

Technical features of the BEMU

The battery-electric multiple unit is a modern low-floor train designed to ensure full accessibility and enhanced passenger experience. It is equipped with boarding ramps and accessible toilets for persons with reduced mobility, as well as designated areas for bicycles. The entire passenger cabin is under continuous video surveillance for added safety. Onboard, passengers benefit from free Wi-Fi, visual and audio station announcements, and multimedia monitors for video content display. The train accommodates 157 seated and 158 standing passengers.

The BEMU is designed for an average operational range of up to 480 kilometers per day, with the capability to run for up to 18 hours daily. It can be coupled with new-generation low-floor trains, allowing for increased capacity during peak demand.  

Engineered for dual-network operation, the train runs on both electrified and non-electrified railway lines. It reaches speeds of up to 160 km/h when powered by the overhead catenary and seamlessly transitions to battery mode, capable of up to 120 km/h on non-electrified routes. Its battery system supports flexible charging via the contact line or stationary charging points.