Stadler has announced plans to provide advanced traction systems for Leo Express, a regional private transport operator. This initiative aligns with the ongoing modernization of railway networks in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, transitioning from a 3kV DC setup to the European standard 25kV/50Hz AC traction system.
These state-of-the-art traction systems will be designed and produced at Stadler’s Frauenfeld facility in Switzerland. With funding support from the Czech Ministry of Transport, Leo Express aims to retrofit its Stadler FLIRT trains to operate on both 3kV DC and the new 25kV/50Hz AC systems. This dual capability will enable seamless operations across upgraded and legacy rail networks in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and parts of Poland.
On January 23, 2025, Leo Express officially commissioned Stadler to integrate these systems into its fleet. The project will be executed at Stadler’s plant in northeastern Switzerland, and contributions from Czech suppliers will ensure local involvement in the upgrade process.
The transition to a dual-traction system involves hardware and software advancements. Updates to the Train Control and Management System (TCMS) will include improved diagnostics and a new control feature that allows operators to switch between traction systems as needed. Additionally, comprehensive testing will assess weight distribution, body strength, and the trains’ running and braking performance to ensure optimal safety and efficiency.
