First Modernised ČD Class 811 Railcar For The Moravian-Silesian Region

On 2 July 2020 ČD presented the prototype of the future batch modernisation of Class 810 diesel railcars destined for the Moravian-Silesian Region (Moravskoslezský kraj, MSK). A total of 14 diesel railcars and 10 trailers will be modernised at DPOV Veselí nad Moravou for MSK services.

Now designated Class 811, the two-axle vehicles will be fully air-conditioned, equipped with, for example, enhanced seats and Wi-Fi, together with USB sockets, offering more comfort for passengers. There will be new, more comfortable upholstered seats with a larger pitch. The capacity of the railcars will thus drop from the original 55 to 45 seats. Another improvement is the new information system: internal and external panels will be installed in the trains, stops and other information will also be reported acoustically. Another helpful step is the new bicycle rake which will fitted be in the trailers.

The demand for these modernisations arose in 2018, when the MSK decided to go a more economical way until it bought completely new trains. However, it was not at all easy to come up with a technical solution that would meet the task of rebuilding. The biggest challenge was to install an air conditioning, which required the installation of a more powerful diesel engine, new auxiliary drives and control system to ensure sufficient power for the HVAC without affecting the traction parameters of the vehicle.

At the same time it was necessary to design completely new air distribution channels which are suitably integrated into the interior. To ensure the correct efficiency of the HVAC, it was then necessary to replace single windows with that with the double glazing and to insulate the entire bodyshell  with a suitable material. 

The first two vehicles ware completed at the end of June. Now will follow testing at the VUZ Velim test centre.