Private rail operator Leo Express in Czechia is advancing its ambitious expansion plans, combining the recent transfer of retired Talgo VI trains from Spain with exploratory filings for new international night services.

At the end of June 2025, Leo Express submitted a detailed open-access application proposing a 19-hour night train linking Bratislava in Slovakia, with Ostend in Belgium. 

Although the company emphasises the filing as exploratory rather than a firm commitment, it outlines a potential launch date of 13 December 2026, with daily trains in both directions. 

The planned service would feature over 50 scheduled stops and offer a range of accommodation options, including couchettes, sleepers, and seated coaches. Rolling stock for this route is expected to include modernised RIC carriages hauled by Siemens Vectron locomotives.

Leo Express spokesperson Emil Sedlařík highlighted to RailTech.com the complexity of launching night train services, citing higher operational costs and cross-border scheduling challenges. 

The company views such filings as part of a longer decision-making process dependent on infrastructure capacity and regulatory approvals. Despite these hurdles, Leo Express is optimistic about the potential appeal of overnight rail travel as a comfortable alternative to flying or driving.

Transfer

This strategic push aligns with recent developments surrounding Leo Express’s rolling stock. Earlier this month, Spanish state operator – and owner of Leo Express – Renfe began transferring three refurbished Talgo VI trainsets to its Czech subsidiary. 

These sets, dating from the 1990s and recently modernised, were withdrawn from service in Spain last year after operating on routes including Madrid–Algeciras and the Trenhotel services between Barcelona and Paris.

The transfer was documented on 8 August via photos and video shared on Trenvista’s Facebook page by photographer Lluís Miquel Tuells, showing the Talgo VI trainset 6B16 extended from nine to thirteen carriages, including a former sleeper coach. 

Velim railway test circuit

The trainsets are scheduled for testing at the Velim railway test circuit in the Czech Republic before entering service. Leo Express staff have been training in Spain to familiarise themselves with the units, which feature articulated designs, pendulum suspension, and variable gauge capability—traits that once enabled cross-border operation between Spain and France.

The Talgo VI sets will be leased through Renfe’s rolling stock leasing subsidiary, Renfe Alquiler de Material Ferroviario (RAMF), continuing a partnership that has seen previous leasing of Alstom Coradia LINT units for services in Slovakia.

Leo Express has experienced strong growth since Renfe’s majority acquisition in 2021, doubling passenger numbers to 3.8 million in 2024 and increasing revenues above €40 million. Investments include €16 million to upgrade rolling stock for dual-voltage operation, supported by EU funds.

While the Bratislava–Ostend night train remains speculative, the combined efforts in rolling stock acquisition and route exploration underscore Leo Express’s intent to expand its footprint in Central and Western Europe, potentially reshaping overnight rail travel options in the region.

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