To gain first-hand insight into Vivi’s experience about the procurement and operation of its existing electric trains, ATD (Road Transport Administration, a state-owned limited liability company), met in person with Vivi’s management team on 28 July. The knowledge and lessons learned are important for helping ATD enhance passenger comfort levels as part of the delivery of the new Battery Electric Multiple Units (BEMU).
During the meeting, the parties discussed and compiled several proposals for improving BEMU, aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and travel quality while also improving working conditions for onboard staff. One of the proposals was to create special vertical luggage compartments in the train carriages, preventing luggage from obstructing aisles, inconveniencing passengers by occupying floor space, or being placed above seats, with particular consideration given to winter travel conditions.
Another recommendation was to designate and prepare dedicated spaces for coffee and vending machines, which would improve convenience for passengers on longer journeys. As a third proposal, the expert group suggested improving the placement and design of bicycle storage areas to ensure both safety and a pleasant, convenient environment for cyclists and other passengers.
Such exchanges of experience and discussions between the parties involved in rolling stock delivery oversight and the train operator are particularly valuable, as they help identify practical operational issues and nuances that may not always be fully anticipated during the design phase.
ATD reminds that on 11 December 2025, a contract was signed with Škoda Group for the procurement of nine battery electric multiple units (BEMUs). The trains will be financed by the European Union Cohesion Fund and national co-financing. Delivery of the battery-powered trains is scheduled to be completed by 2029. In March 2026, ATD signed an agreement with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency (CFCA) for the implementation of the project.
Effective and diligent project administration is essential in the implementation of European Union-funded projects to prevent compliance risks and financial corrections that could directly affect the project budget. EU-funded projects are subject to stringent requirements regarding financial management, procurement procedures, reporting, and documentation, making robust project administration a critical component of successful project delivery.
BEMU represent a significant investment for Latvia, strengthening the role of rail as the backbone of the country's public transport system while improving the quality and accessibility of passenger rail services. Passengers will benefit from a full range of modern amenities, including climate control, reduced noise and vibration levels, modern restroom facilities, power outlets, and USB‑C charging points.
The new trains will be accessible to all passenger groups and will comply with the latest European accessibility standards. They will feature modern passenger information systems and designated spaces for wheelchair users. Conditions for passengers travelling with bicycles will also be improved. While existing diesel trains typically have high-floor boarding and space for only three bicycles, the new battery-powered trains will provide special areas for eight bicycles in the low-floor section, including four vertically mounted and four horizontally mounted bicycle spaces.
Over the coming years, the project will not only significantly enhance passenger comfort and reduce travel times but will also provide a more environmentally friendly mode of transport. Battery electric trains are quieter and produce no direct emissions, making them more convenient for passengers and more pleasant for residents living near railway lines.
The new battery electric multiple units will be similar in appearance to the electric trains already introduced into service. Each train will consist of two cars, feature a low-floor design, and provide 188 seats, including 24 first-class seats. The trains will have a maximum design speed of up to 160 km/h and an operating speed of up to 120 km/h in battery mode.
Their substantially improved acceleration compared to existing diesel trains will enable more effective use of the available 120 km/h rail infrastructure and could reduce journey times by as much as 15–25 minutes. As a result, rail travel will become more competitive with private car transport.
Battery Electric Multiple Units (BEMU) are electric trains equipped with onboard batteries that enable operation on non-electrified railway sections. The batteries can be charged both while running on electrified lines and at dedicated charging stations. These new battery-powered trains will primarily operate on the Daugavpils and Cēsis routes, where the necessary charging infrastructure will be developed.
