Estonia has taken another step toward modernising its rail network with the public launch of a new generation of electric trains built by Škoda Group for national operator Elron. The first unit is scheduled to enter passenger service on 15 December, with all sixteen trains set to operate around Tallinn and on newly electrified routes across the country. They were unveiled to the public on 29 November, marking the beginning of what officials describe as a major advance for regional and long-distance rail travel.

The order consists of eleven long-distance and five suburban units, all now completed, in a contract worth around EUR 147 million. Based on Škoda’s RegioPanter platform, the fleet has been fully customised for Estonia’s technical requirements, including 1520 mm gauge track and dual-voltage operation at 3 kV and 25 kV 50 Hz. Each train measures roughly 85 metres and offers air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power and USB outlets, real-time passenger information screens and designated areas for wheelchairs, bicycles, and prams. Designers have also made the interior adaptable, allowing space to be adjusted seasonally – such as increasing bicycle capacity during warmer months.

Škoda Group Vice-Chairman Tomáš Ignačák said:

“A new chapter in Estonian rail transport has been opened. The electric trains manufactured by Škoda Group demonstrate our technological capabilities and extensive experience in modern rail transport, which we can apply to projects around the world. We are delighted to be able to make a significant contribution to improving the quality of public transport in the Baltic States, specifically in Estonia at present. Our trains currently operate in every Baltic country, and we also have trolleybuses and trams in Riga and Vilnius. In addition, new trolleybuses are also being manufactured for the Estonian capital, Tallinn. All trains have already been manufactured and have undergone rigorous certification directly on the tracks in Estonia and will now be put into operation one by one.”

Elron’s Management Board Chairman Lauri Betlem highlighted growing demand for rail travel in the country, noting that passenger numbers have doubled over the past twelve years to around eight million per year. He said:

“The number of train passengers in Estonia has doubled over the past twelve years, reaching eight million passengers per year. To provide an even better travel experience as passenger numbers continue to grow, we will be introducing 16 new suburban and long-distance electric trains produced by Škoda Group over the course of next year. At the public presentation and test ride on 29 November, passengers gave very positive feedback on the new trains.”

Representing the Czech Republic at the unveiling, Ambassador Zdeněk Beranek added:

“We are witnessing an important moment for Estonian public transport and for mutual economic relations. The new trains represent a significant step forward in terms of comfort, technology and sustainability for travel in Estonia. I am proud that a company from Czechia can contribute to this progress.”

The new units will be brought into service gradually over the coming year, supporting Estonia’s shift toward greener and more efficient rail transport.

Image: Škoda Group