The Skoda Group has secured two public tenders to supply a total of 75 new trolleybuses to Sofia, expanding its presence in the Bulgarian capital’s public transport fleet.
The contracts comprise 35 standard 12-metre trolleybuses and 40 articulated 18-metre vehicles, with a combined value of €56.19 million, Skoda said. The win follows an earlier order in 2021, when the Czech manufacturer delivered 30 low-floor trolleybuses to Sofia under a deal worth around €20 million.
Under the first contract, Skoda will deliver 35 units of its 12-metre Skoda 32Tr low-floor trolleybus. The model has a passenger capacity of up to 95 people, including 35 seated, and is equipped with a traction battery that allows operation beyond sections with overhead power lines. The battery enables off-wire driving of up to 12 kilometres, according to the company.
The second, larger order covers 40 articulated Skoda 27Tr trolleybuses with a length of 18 metres. These vehicles can carry up to 167 passengers, including 42 seated. While Skoda has not disclosed battery capacity details, the articulated model is designed to travel up to 15 kilometres without overhead line power.
Delivery schedules differ between the two orders. The 12-metre trolleybuses are to be delivered within 12 months, while the articulated vehicles are scheduled to arrive within 15 months. Both timelines will start once the contracts formally enter into force.
Skoda said the contracts are contingent on confirmation of European Union funding, after which the delivery periods will begin. The new vehicles are expected to support Sofia’s efforts to modernise its electric public transport network and reduce urban emissions.