České dráhy has introduced the first RegioFox trains into regular passenger service in the South Bohemian Region. These modern regional trains, colloquially known as "Foxes," are currently operating on the line between Veselí nad Lužnicí and České Velenice. Starting from the new timetable in December, seven RegioFox units will serve the South Bohemia region, connecting key cities such as Tábor, Písek, and Strakonice.
České dráhy has ordered a total of 106 RegioFox units from the Polish manufacturer PESA, with nearly 60 expected to be operational by the end of this year. The rollout in South Bohemia follows successful deployment on the busy line between Pardubice and Havlíčkův Brod, aiming to offer higher travel comfort with features like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and charging outlets for electronics.
Currently, two coupled RegioFox units are running the Veselí nad Lužnicí – Třeboň – České Velenice route, offering 230 seats and space for 16 bicycles. A third unit is being used for driver and staff training and serves as an operational backup for maintenance and unexpected events.
The new trains are part of České dráhy’s record fleet renewal program this year, which includes the introduction of approximately 440 new vehicles for both regional and long-distance routes.
Following the repair of the bridge near Červená nad Vltavou, all RegioFox units will be reassigned to the Tábor – Písek – Ražice – Strakonice line with the start of the 2024/25 timetable, as per the regional transport authority's requirements.
The introduction of these new trains follows an agreement signed in autumn 2023 between the South Bohemian Region and České dráhy, which also brought RegioPanter electric units to the region's electrified lines. This continuous effort ensures that the most modern trains are available to the residents and visitors of South Bohemia, who have long awaited these upgrades. The regional government allocates over EUR 75.1 million annually for transport services.
