may 21, 2025 - (CROATIA) Croatia launches first battery-electric train in major green mobility push

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Croatia has unveiled its first battery-electric multiple unit (BEMU) train, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s transition toward sustainable public transport.

The new train officially entered service on the Zagreb–Bjelovar–Zagreb route, with dignitaries including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Oleg Butković attending the launch ceremony in Bjelovar.

Developed by KONČAR – Electric Vehicles, the train is part of the €17.1 million “Application of Green Technologies in Railway Passenger Transport” project, co-financed by €13.3 million from the EU’s national recovery and resilience plan. The initiative also includes the production of a second battery-powered train and six charging stations across Croatia.

“This is a historic moment for Croatian railways and our broader economy,” said Butković. “It represents real, measurable progress in our national railway modernisation and a firm step towards green and smart mobility.”

HŽ passenger transport CEO Željko Ukić highlighted the BEMU’s hybrid capability. “The train operates on both electrified and non-electrified tracks, using battery power for the final 30 kilometres to Bjelovar. It’s a breakthrough for sustainable transport on non-electrified lines,” he said.

Equipped with free Wi-Fi, accessibility features, and a capacity of 315 passengers, the BEMU can run up to 480 kilometres daily and reach speeds of 160 km/h under electric wires or 120 km/h in battery mode.

KONČAR CEO Gordan Kolak emphasised the project’s technological and environmental impact. “This is a pivotal advancement, combining high-capacity energy storage with smart fleet optimisation.”

The rollout is part of a broader strategy to modernise HŽ passenger transport’s fleet, which now includes 63 low-floor trains. The government also plans to procure 13 additional trains with alternative propulsion technologies, reinforcing its commitment to cleaner, more efficient public transport.

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