Croatia’s Končar among first in Europe to produce battery-powered trains

(Photo: Končar)

Regional technology leader and a driving force in Croatia’s industry, KONČAR, made a prominent appearance this September at InnoTrans, the world’s largest transport industry trade fair in Berlin, the company said on Tuesday.

For the first time in its history, KONČAR showcased two of its trains – a battery-powered train and a measuring train – representing the latest in innovation, expertise, and advanced technology from Croatian specialists.

These trains are among the most complex high-tech products developed by Croatian industry.

This year, InnoTrans spans 200,000 m² of exhibition space across 42 halls, with 3,500 metres of tracks, gathering over 2,900 exhibitors from 59 countries.

(Photo: Končar)

With its presence before more than 160,000 visitors from around 150 nations, KONČAR aims to contribute to Croatia’s strategic positioning in Europe’s high-tech industry while strengthening its economic competitiveness.

From 24th to 27th September, Berlin once again became the global hub for the transport industry.

This leading international fair, focused on railway technology and infrastructure, public transport, interiors, and tunnel construction, provided an impressive overview of the latest trends and technologies in urban mobility, much of which is centred on addressing modern challenges like the green energy transition.

In response to the growing need for the electrification of public transport and the creation of more sustainable urban mobility, KONČAR unveiled its latest battery-powered train (BMV) in the outdoor exhibition area. Shortly after the official opening of the fair, a special presentation of the train was held for industry professionals. Alongside this technological attraction, KONČAR also presented its measuring train, which arrived directly from KONČAR – Electric Vehicles’ production line.

(Photo: Končar)

Upon returning to Croatia, this train will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of its domestic client, HŽ Infrastructure.

“We are proud to present our latest technological advancements to the global audience, which will undoubtedly shape the future of the transport industry in Croatia and beyond. These developments are the result of independent research and the dedicated work of our experts.

We are particularly proud of our Battery Motor Train (BMV), a modern rail solution that showcases KONČAR Group’s extensive experience in developing high-tech products, especially in urban mobility.

These trains will transport passengers on non-electrified railway networks, powered by batteries charged solely through stable energy charging points. We have also ensured that the supporting infrastructure, produced by KONČAR, is up to the task,” said Josip Ninić, President of the Board of KONČAR – Electric Vehicles.

KONČAR’s battery-powered trains, like the one exhibited at InnoTrans, are designed for a track width of 1,435 mm and a top speed of 120 km/h. They feature a two-part composition with 102 seats and a total capacity for 216 passengers. The roof-mounted lithium NMC battery packs have a total energy capacity of 736 kWh. With safety being a top priority for KONČAR, the battery packs meet the strictest European standards for lithium batteries.

(Photo: Končar)

Another remarkable showcase of KONČAR’s technological prowess is the measuring train, a self-propelled vehicle designed for monitoring, measuring, and recording the condition of railway tracks with high precision. Built on the proven platform of KONČAR’s existing electric and diesel-electric trains, this high-floor rail vehicle is powered by a diesel engine and can reach speeds of up to 140 km/h on both electrified and non-electrified tracks.

“Both trains on display reflect the remarkable knowledge, innovation, technological advancement, and competence of our local experts and Croatian industry. This places Croatia on par with many larger and more recognised European manufacturers in the industry.

(Photo: Končar)

Beyond enhancing national recognition and competitiveness, we are also focused on the long-term impact of setting such technological trends. By continuously developing products and solutions in the rail segment, such as electric trams, hybrid and battery trains, and the related charging stations and infrastructure, we are building a future for public transport that is more sustainable, greener, safer, more comfortable, and overall higher in quality.

We are grateful to our long-standing partner, HŽ Passenger Transport, for their impeccable cooperation, through which we will soon deliver new battery-powered trains, like the one showcased at InnoTrans. Their recognition of KONČAR as an innovative partner for advanced green transition solutions is particularly important to us as we build a successful presence across the entire EU market,” said Mr. Gordan Kolak, President of the Board of KONČAR.