Czech Railways are bidding farewell to over a hundred older locomotives and wagons that have served for decades, making way for more modern low-floor trains. These retired locomotives and wagons, known by distinctive names such as “Tornados,” “Plecháče,” and “Skleníky,” will soon be replaced as part of Czech Railways’ efforts to rejuvenate its fleet and reduce the average age of its rolling stock.

One of the notable retirements includes the “Tornados,” electric units of the 460 series, which have earned a special place in the hearts of railway enthusiasts and photographers. The “Tornados” are set to retire by next spring, and their last run will be on the Olomouc-Vsetín line, where they will be replaced by brand new RegioPanter units.

Czech Railways aims to significantly reduce its average fleet age from 32 years to 20 years over the coming years. The rail carrier has presented detailed plans outlining which units will be retired, scrapped, or modernized.

In southern Moravia, for example, passenger trains composed of classic cars with electric locomotives, affectionately nicknamed “Plecháče,” have already disappeared from service. Iconic motor cars of the 810 series, known as “Kufr” or “Skleník,” are also gradually vanishing from local lines.

This year has seen the introduction of dozens of new units as part of the modernization process, replacing older trains and classic passenger cars.

Michal Krapinec, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Czech Railways, commented on the ongoing changes, stating, “Old times and old regional trains are coming to an end. In the coming years, there will be no more steep steps or a lack of legroom in the cars known as Honeckers. We are gradually retiring cars that do not allow passengers to charge their mobile devices or connect to the onboard Wi-Fi network.”

These retirements and renewals are possible due to substantial investments in the renewal of the rolling stock. Czech Railways plans to introduce at least 612 entirely new passenger vehicles worth approximately 35 billion Czech crowns over the next few years.

In addition to retiring older locomotives and wagons, the railways are offering these vehicles for sale. Some are still being used by railway societies, while others are being converted into unconventional restaurants, accommodations, or facilities for various purposes. Some of these retired units have even found a new life as unique artifacts for decoration in public and private spaces, preserving a piece of railway history.

Article by Prague Forum