A consortium of SOR Libchavy and Škoda Group has secured a framework contract with Košice Public Transport Company to deliver up to 30 articulated 18-metre electric buses. The deal, valued at CZK 610 million, includes an initial order of 11 vehicles with an option for 19 more.
The first buses are scheduled for delivery between late 2025 and early 2026, positioning Košice as a leader in public transport electrification in Slovakia.
“We are proud to have concluded this important contract with Košice Public Transport Company, which represents a further step towards strengthening our position in the market for modern and environmentally friendly means of transport,” said Filip Murgaš, Managing Director and Sales Director of SOR Libchavy. “This project will provide the citizens of Košice with a modern and comfortable form of public transport and will contribute to the city’s ambition to become a leader in the electrification of public transport in Slovakia.”
The fully low-floor vehicles are equipped with permanent magnet traction motors and silicon carbide-based traction converters, ensuring high efficiency and low energy consumption. Passenger amenities include air conditioning, modern information boards, Wi-Fi, and an automatic passenger counting system. Safety features comprise internal camera systems and a reversing camera.
“The unique charging system allows charging of electric buses during the day directly on the route via collectors connected to the existing tram and trolleybus overhead system in Košice,” said Radek Svoboda, Managing Director Škoda Electric at Škoda Group. “This system greatly increases the flexibility and operational efficiency of the fleet.”
This project marks a significant step in Košice’s public transport modernization efforts, aligning with the city’s commitment to environmentally friendly mobility solutions. The consortium’s success underscores the growing demand for electric buses in urban transport systems across Europe.
