Škoda Group has revealed that it has entered into a strategic partnership with electric vehicle and energy storage company Microvast to develop and manufacture next-generation battery systems for public transport vehicles.

The work will be aimed primarily at developing new systems for battery-electric multiple units, known as BEMUs.

Microvast has technological expertise in designing and making battery cells, modules and packs, and Škoda Group has experience in the design and certification of vehicles for trolleybus and rail transport.

The first phase of the partnership will see the two firms developing batteries for use on Škoda Group’s new battery units for railway use.

The batteries will be designed in such a way that enables them to also be used in electric buses and other types of public transport vehicles.

The partnership aims to have the first vehicle with the new battery system prototype ready to present by the end of next year (2026).

Škoda Group manufactures public transport vehicles and components, two of its most recent contracts being to supply vehicles to Northeast Bohemia and Ostrava, both in the Czech Republic.

The Group produces various types of public transport vehicles, including metro trainsets, low-floor trams, trolleybuses, suburban train units and electric buses. It also produces control and drive systems for the operation of public transport services.

Škoda Group also deals with the development of digitisation and information technology. The group employs more than 5,500 workers.

Its new partner company, Microvast, has been working in the field of battery technology for the last 19 years.

“At Škoda Group, we are committed to developing our own battery technology as the cornerstone of our future solutions for zero-emission mobility. The partnership with Microvast combines our in-depth knowledge of transport systems with their cutting-edge battery innovations. This will enable us to manufacture highly competitive products made in Europe. This collaboration not only strengthens our own vehicle portfolio, but also paves the way for offering advanced battery systems to other manufacturers in the industry.”

Jaromír Šilhánek, President of Business Units at Škoda Group