Latvia launches new electric trains co-financed by EU

In the inauguration of the new electric train participated Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commission Executive Vice-President, Kaspars Briškens, Minister of Transport of the Republic of Latvia, Zdeneks Svata, Member of the Škoda Group Board, and Roger Janis Grigulis, the chairman of the board of AS “Pasažieru vilciens”.

The new electric trains have climate control, ergonomic seats and modern, spacious facilities that are also suitable for passengers with reduced mobility. They are equipped with video and audio information systems, powerful WiFi connection. The trains will run smoother and have lower noise levels in the cabins compared to those currently in use. The new trains have a design speed of up to 160 km/h (currently 120 km/h). The maximum speed will be possible on sections where the railway infrastructure allows it in the future.

The new trains will be used for ensuring passenger transport in the electrified railway traffic lines in the direction of Aizkraukle, Tukums, Skulte and Jelgava.

The total cost of the project is €257.889 million. The purchase of 23 new electric trains will be co-financed from the European Union Cohesion Fund amounting to €114.211 million.