Vanda SvobodovaThe streets of are set to witness a groundbreaking moment in public transportation as the Czech Republic launches the operation of its longest trolleybus, one of the largest in the world. The Czech Republic’s trolleybus system is among the most developed systems in the world. It is a significant milestone that underscores the importance of this launch for the country’s public transport infrastructure. Starting Wednesday afternoon, this high-capacity vehicle will begin its regular service, connecting the Nádraží Veleslavín metro station with the Ruzyně Airport. The inaugural journey is scheduled to depart from Terminal 1 towards Nádraží Veleslavín at 14:41, marking a significant leap towards enhancing the city’s public transport system.
A Leap Towards High-Capacity Transit
The Prague Public Transit Company takes pride in being one of the first operators in the Czech Republic to introduce such a high-capacity trolleybus. Stretching nearly 25 meters in length, this behemoth can accommodate up to 180 passengers, effectively replacing the diesel buses of route 119, which often struggled to carry all passengers during peak times. The transition from traditional diesel buses to hybrid drive buses marks a significant step in modernizing the public transportation system.
The project is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year.
Innovative Infrastructure for Trolleybus Systems
The route from the Nádraží Veleslavín to the Terminal 3 has been upgraded with an additional 11.5 km of overhead wires for the trolleybuses since last February. Between the stops at Terminal 3 and the Airport, the trolleybuses will switch to battery power, recharging at both the Václav Havel Airport Prague and Nádraží Veleslavín termini. Charging stations have also been installed at the Řepy garage, from where the trolleybuses are dispatched.
The Tram Specs and Overhead Wires
The Prague Public Transit Company has acquired a total of twenty large-capacity, three-section, battery-powered Škoda-Solaris 24m trolleybuses through a consortium of Škoda Electric, Solaris Bus & Coach, and Solaris Czech, with a special luggage compartment modification. These new trolleybuses are part of the city’s fleet of electric buses, emphasizing their role in reducing carbon emissions. These vehicles boast five doors for boarding and alighting, air conditioning, four LED information panels, and a special luggage compartment modification, ensuring a comfortable and convenient ride for passengers. In comparison, the tram systems in many cities have also seen significant advancements, including the installation of equipment for tram manufacturing and breakthroughs in autonomous tram operations.
An Eco-friendly Initiative with Electric Buses
Funded by the European Union, the project aims to develop an emission-free trolleybus network within Prague’s public transport by replacing existing diesel articulated buses. These new battery-powered trolleybuses are a step towards reducing diesel consumption, emissions, and noise pollution, aligning with the city’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions, which is crucial for the world.
The line connecting various parts of the city will see significant improvements, enhancing connectivity and supporting the overall development of urban transportation routes.
Ready for the Road
As the longest trolleybus of the Czech Republic gears up for its maiden voyage, Prague anticipates a new era of public transport. Prague’s new trolleybus is set to join the ranks of other operational trolleybus systems around the world, showcasing its importance in urban mobility. This initiative not only promises to improve the commuting experience for passengers but also sets a precedent for other cities to follow in the pursuit of green and efficient urban mobility solutions.
