As a leading regional technology innovator and a cornerstone of the Croatian industry, KONČAR is once again participating in the world’s premier transport industry trade fair, InnoTrans, held in Berlin this September. This year represents a milestone for the company, as we debut two advanced and industry-leading trains for the first time: a battery-powered train and a measurement train. These breakthroughs underscore the outstanding skill and engineering excellence of Croatian professionals, embodying the most advanced technological achievements in the nation’s industry. This year's event spans 200,000 square meters across 42 exhibition halls and includes 3,500 meters of rail track, with over 2,900 exhibitors from 59 countries. Attracting over 160,000 visitors from nearly 150 countries, KONČAR’s participation will further cement Croatia’s position in Europe’s advanced technology landscape while contributing to the country’s economic growth. 

From September 24 to 27, 2024, Berlin once again becomes the central hub for the global transport industry. The world-renowned trade fair, which highlights advancements in railway technology, infrastructure, public transportation, interiors, and tunnel construction, provides an extensive showcase of the latest trends and technologies shaping urban mobility. These advancements target the pressing challenges posed by the shift toward green energy. As part of its commitment to sustainable mobility, KONČAR presented its latest battery-powered multiple-unit (BMU) train in the outdoor exhibition area. Following the official opening, a special presentation was given to industry experts. Adding to this technological showcase, KONČAR’s measurement train, which was transported directly from KONČAR – Electric Vehicles, was a key highlight in the outdoor display. Once back in Croatia, it is set to significantly enhance the operational efficiency of HŽ Infrastructure.

„We are thrilled to showcase our latest technological breakthroughs on the global stage—innovations that we are confident will shape the future of transport not only in Croatia but across international markets. These achievements are primarily the result of our proprietary development processes and the dedicated efforts of our expert teams. We take particular pride in our Battery-Powered Multiple Unit (BMU), a standout in the realm of cutting-edge rail technology and a testament to KONČAR Group's extensive experience in developing proprietary high-tech products, especially in the urban mobility sector. Designed for passenger transport on non-electrified rail networks, these trains are powered by batteries that recharge exclusively through stable charging points. Additionally, it's worth underscoring that the supporting infrastructure, crucial for their effective operation, is wholly produced by KONČAR“, emphasized Josip Ninić, President of the Management Board of KONČAR – Electric Vehicles.

The battery-powered trains from KONČAR, including the one showcased at InnoTrans, are designed for a standard track gauge of 1,435 mm and a maximum speed of 120 km/h. With a two-car configuration, they provide 102 seats and have a total capacity of 216 passengers. The roof-mounted propulsion batteries, utilizing lithium NMC technology, boast an energy capacity of 736 kWh. As safety remains a key focus for KONČAR, special emphasis was placed on selecting battery packs that comply with the most stringent European regulations for lithium batteries. An exceptional showcase of KONČAR’s advanced engineering is the featured measurement train, a self-propelled vehicle designed to monitor, measure, and accurately record the condition of railway tracks. Leveraging the proven platform of KONČAR’s electric and diesel-electric trains, this high-floor vehicle is equipped with a diesel engine and can reach speeds of up to 140 km/h on both electrified and non-electrified tracks.

„The showcased trains are a testament to the exceptional knowledge, innovative thinking, and technological advancement of our local experts and Croatian industry. This milestone aligns our country with the leading, more renowned European manufacturers in the industry. Beyond enhancing national visibility and competitiveness, the long-term impact we make by spearheading these technological advancements is of utmost importance to us. Through our ongoing innovation in the rail sector - developing electric trams, hybrid and battery-powered trains, and the necessary charging infrastructure - we are paving the way for a future of public transport that is more sustainable, greener, safer, more comfortable, and superior in quality. We highly value our trusted partnership with HŽ Passenger Transport, whose exceptional collaboration over the years will soon result in the delivery of new battery-powered trains, like the model presented at InnoTrans. Their endorsement of KONČAR as a leader in green transition solutions is very important to our mission, enabling us to leverage our domestic expertise and strengthen our competitiveness across the broader EU market“, noted M.Sc. Gordan Kolak, CEO of KONČAR.