Arriva Accelerates Czech Republic’s Transition to Electric Public Transport with New Fleet of Zero-Emission Buses

Arriva Accelerates Czech Republic’s Transition to Electric Public Transport with New Fleet of Zero-Emission Buses

(IN BRIEF) Arriva Group is advancing its commitment to decarbonizing public transport in the Czech Republic by introducing 16 new electric buses in the city of Kladno, marking the country’s largest single purchase of such vehicles. These buses will operate from a new, state-of-the-art charging hub, part of a broader effort to phase out diesel buses in the city. This initiative is supported by a €57 million, 10-year contract with the local transport authority, with additional funding from the EU. The project reflects Arriva’s dedication to sustainable urban mobility and positions the company as a leader in the European public transport sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 28-Aug-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Arriva Group is making significant strides in decarbonizing public transport in the Czech Republic, with the introduction of 16 new electric buses in the city of Kladno, near Prague. This major initiative is part of a broader effort to phase out diesel vehicles and enhance sustainable urban mobility.

The new electric buses, which represent the largest single purchase of such vehicles in the country to date, will operate from a state-of-the-art charging hub specifically constructed for this purpose. This hub, equipped with nine ultra-fast charging stands, marks a pivotal step in Kladno’s shift towards zero-emission public transport.

Sian Leydon, Arriva Group’s Managing Director for Mainland Europe, highlighted the significance of this project: “The momentum behind the Czech Republic’s transition to electric buses is undeniable. These new buses not only underscore our commitment to sustainability but also enhance the quality of public transport, offering a cleaner, more reliable alternative to private car use.”

This initiative follows Arriva Czech Republic’s commitment under a €57 million, 10-year contract awarded by the ČSAD MHD Kladno passenger transport authority in 2021. The new buses, produced by Czech manufacturer SOR NS, feature cutting-edge traction batteries, providing faster charging, extended range, and increased durability. Passengers will benefit from modern amenities including Wi-Fi, advanced air conditioning with heat pump technology, USB ports, and accessible low-floor designs.

The total investment of €10.2 million for the electric buses and the initial charging hub has been supported by the EU-funded Integrated Regional Operational Programme (IROP) and a €3.8 million contribution from Arriva. This marks a significant milestone in Arriva’s journey towards becoming a leader in sustainable public transport across Europe.

With a strong presence in the Czech Republic since 2006, Arriva continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of public transport in the region, employing over 3,500 people and operating a vast fleet of trains and buses. As the transition to electric vehicles progresses, additional charging hubs will be established to support the ongoing replacement of diesel and CNG buses with environmentally friendly alternatives.

About Arriva Group:

Arriva is a leading provider of passenger transport across Europe, employing around 34,400 people and delivering around 1.6 billion passenger journeys. With buses, trains, coaches, trams, waterbuses, bike-sharing systems, on-demand transport solutions and a rolling stock leasing company, Arriva proudly connects people and communities safely, reliably and sustainably across 11 countries, delivering these services in a better way, every day. The activities of Arriva are divided into four business units: UK Bus, UK Trains, The Netherlands and Mainland Europe. Arriva has passenger transport operations in the Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and the United Kingdom, and also operates a rolling stock leasing company in Romania.

Media Contact:

Arriva Group press office
communications@arriva.co.uk

SOURCE: Arriva Group