Škoda Group has been awarded an EUR 29.8 million contract to perform extensive repairs and partial modernization of 43 MVTV2 series vehicles used by Správa železnic for overhead line inspection and maintenance. The work will begin this summer at Škoda's production facility in Šumperk, with the first two prototype vehicles expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The entire project is scheduled for completion by mid-2029.
The contract encompasses a comprehensive overhaul of each vehicle, including disassembly, inspection, repair or replacement of components, and reassembly with a new paint job. In addition to repairs, the vehicles will undergo partial modernization, such as the installation of a new transmission that allows speeds from 10 km/h. The onboard voltage system will be converted from 48V to 24V for compatibility with current standard components in railway transport, addressing the issue of obsolete 48V parts and maintenance challenges.
The overhaul of the first two prototypes will take approximately 18 months, while each subsequent vehicle in the series production phase is expected to take around 6 months. The project will involve around 30-40 specialists, including technicians, technologists, and procurement teams initially, followed by mechanics, locksmiths, electricians, and air-conditioning technicians for the actual repair work. In the final phase, testing technicians will ensure the vehicles are ready for operational use.
These vehicles play a critical role in the geometric positioning and maintenance of overhead lines, as well as transporting staff and materials. Originally manufactured by Škoda Vagonka for the Czechoslovak State Railways, the MVTV2 series has been undergoing repairs and modernization at the Šumperk facility since 2007.
This contract signifies a continued partnership between Škoda Group and Správa železnic, aiming to extend the service life and reliability of these specialized vehicles while improving operational efficiency and maintenance processes.