CZECH operator Leo Express has signed a 10-year agreement with Renfe’s rolling stock leasing subsidiary Renfe Alquiler de Material Ferroviario SME for three sets of locomotive-hauled Talgo VI passenger coaches.
The first rake of 13 Talgo VI coaches has already arrived in the Czech Republic, and the goal is to launch a new service linking the capitals of the Czech Republic and Slovakia - Prague and Bratislava - in the second quarter of 2026. Renfe owns 50% of Leo Express and it says the deal will enable the operator to position itself as a key player in the Central European transport market.
The 200km/h Talgo VI coaches have natural tilting technology, which ensures the train body to tilt as it navigates curves, which increases average speeds through curves and improves ride comfort for passengers. The coaches have single axles rather than bogies which reduce train weight and energy consumption.
The trains have a cafe car and are accessible for passengers with impaired mobility. Each train will seat 354 passengers.
