Direct rail link to Zagreb: New diesel train launched in Varaždin

(Photo: HŽPP)

Varaždin, 7 November 2025 – A new diesel multiple unit has officially entered service on the regional line between Varaždin and Čakovec, marking the ninth new train introduced by Croatian Railways Passenger Transport (HŽPP) this year.

With this addition, HŽPP now operates a total of 70 low-floor trains across Croatia.

The new train, built by KONČAR – Electric Vehicles, was presented at a special launch event attended by representatives of the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, regional and local government officials, and the management of HŽPP.

State Secretary Žarko Tušek described the launch as a milestone in HŽPP’s large-scale investment cycle.

“This marks the conclusion of a significant investment phase – 70 trains in total, worth €360 million. This is the final diesel train for Varaždin, and we already have 19 new battery, electro-battery and electro-diesel trains under contract with KONČAR. Some of these will also serve routes in northern Croatia. By 2026, we plan to procure nearly 40 additional trains,” Tušek said.

(Photo: HŽPP)

He added that investments are also continuing in railway infrastructure both in northern Croatia and nationwide.

HŽPP CEO Željko Ukić expressed satisfaction with the company’s growing fleet and the benefits for local passengers.

“Last year, we carried around 1.3 million passengers in Varaždin and Međimurje Counties, with strong results also from our free travel programmes. This new train will directly connect Čakovec and Varaždin with Zagreb in the morning hours. A charging station for battery trains has already been built in Varaždin, and plans are under way to construct another in Kotoriba,” Ukić explained.

(Photo: HŽPP)

Ivan Paić, member of KONČAR’s Management Board, highlighted the importance of completing the delivery of all twelve diesel-electric multiple units.

“These are high-tech products of Croatian design and engineering that improve the quality of regional passenger transport. We’re proud to contribute to more efficient, comfortable and environmentally friendly mobility solutions. In total, KONČAR has delivered 70 trains to the Croatian network, more than 40 of them in the past four years,” Paić said.

Local officials praised the investment as a major step forward for the region’s transport network.
Varaždin County Prefect Anđelko Stričak emphasised the growing importance of rail transport, especially free travel initiatives benefiting 1,700 school pupils, 1,000 students and 5,000 pensioners.

He also pointed out ongoing infrastructure projects, including the €190 million modernisation of the Podravina railway line between Koprivnica, Varaždin and Čakovec, and the planned Lepoglava rail connection to Zagreb.

Međimurje County Prefect Matija Posavec added:

“We dream of the day when we can travel directly from Čakovec to Zagreb in about an hour. This is a big step towards that goal. Developing a modern and fast rail network will give northern Croatia a new level of competitiveness and mobility.”

(Photo: HŽPP)

Modern Design and Comfort

The new series 7023 diesel multiple unit is a three-car, low-floor train designed for regional transport.
It reaches speeds of up to 120 km/h, with 167 seats and 175 standing places, wide double doors, ramps for wheelchair access, and space for bicycles. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, video surveillance, and real-time travel information via audio-visual systems.

The train’s design allows for quick boarding and alighting, and it can operate in conjunction with other new-generation low-floor trains to increase capacity when needed.