Marko Barišić: Croatia’s first battery-electric train, built by Zagreb’s Končar with EU funding, launches on the Zagreb-Bjelovar route. Combining overhead electric power and batteries, it reaches 160 km/h and 120 km/h respectively, prioritising sustainability. The project highlights Končar’s renewable energy leadership and Croatia’s push to modernise railways after decades of motorway-focused investment.
From Tuesday, a battery-electric train developed by Končar will commence service between Zagreb and Bjelovar. This marks Croatia’s first train equipped with dual power systems. Until now, trains operated solely on electricity or diesel locomotives. The Zagreb-based company Končar developed the vehicle using funding secured from European Union grants. Brussels enthusiastically finances such projects as part of its so-called ‘green technology’ initiatives.
Končar’s dual-powered innovation
Končar, known for its innovations, is a leading electrical engineering firm, employing numerous Croatian engineers and generating most of its revenue through contracts in the demanding EU market. For next year, the company has already secured orders worth over €2 billion. This battery-electric train, designed not only for Croatia but also for export, underscores their international ambitions.
Features and passenger amenities
The train offers 157 seated and approximately the same number of standing spaces. It includes three pairs of double doors, wheelchair access ramps, a bicycle storage area, an audio-visual passenger information system, CCTV and free Wi-Fi. Six charging stations have also been installed along the Končar-supported Bjelovar route to power the train’s batteries.
Speed and infrastructure development
On electrified sections of the route, the train will run on overhead power at speeds up to 160 km/h, switching to battery mode (up to 120 km/h) on non-electrified tracks. These speeds are respectable for Croatia, where investments over the past two decades prioritised motorways. Railway upgrades, now gaining momentum with Končar’s involvement, are expected to continue for at least another decade.
Battery-powered trams and regenerative braking
Končar has integrated similar dual-power systems into trams for Zagreb and Osijek. Previously, trams would halt if power was disrupted—for example, by a truck damaging overhead lines. Now, they can continue via battery power. These batteries recharge through regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration.
Environmental benefits and international recognition
Battery-electric trains are quieter, more efficient and environmentally friendly. Končar’s model recently showcased at a Berlin trade fair drew significant interest. Additionally, a film about the innovation premiered in Paris as part of UNESCO’s World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development campaign, where Končar was recognised as a leader in renewable energy.
Expansion plans and charging network
Beyond the Zagreb-Bjelovar line, battery-electric trains designed by Končar will soon operate in Split and Istria. Charging stations will be built in Pula, Split, Osijek, Varaždin, Bjelovar and Virovitica. These trains are also expected to reduce rail maintenance and operational costs.
Končar’s market leadership
Končar is one of five Croatian companies valued over €1 billion on the Zagreb Stock Exchange, alongside oil firm Ina, Zagreb Bank, food producer Podravka and Croatian Telecom. Recently, Končar has experienced significant growth, advancing initiatives to align with the new era of sustainable energy.