ZSSK unveils refurbished ex-DB double-deck sleeping car
Signal
ZSSK presented one of 10 refurbished ex-DB double-deck sleeping coaches at the Rail Business Days trade fair in Ostrava from June 9-11.
Impact
positiveZSSK aims to enhance passenger services, benefiting travelers and the Slovak tourism sector. The refurbishment could attract more overnight travelers, boosting revenue for ZSSK.
At the Rail Business Days trade fair in Ostrava, held from June 9-11, 2026, Slovak national operator ZSSK showcased one of ten refurbished ex-DB double-deck sleeping coaches. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize its fleet and improve passenger comfort on overnight services.
In November 2025, ZSSK ordered these ten secondhand sleeping cars from ŽOS Vrútky for a total of €22.5 million. This deal not only includes the purchase of the coaches but also encompasses a maintenance contract for ten years, ensuring that the vehicles remain in optimal condition for service. Additionally, ZSSK has secured an option to acquire 14 more coaches in the future, indicating a commitment to expanding its overnight service capabilities.
The refurbished coaches, identified as WLABm171 and WLBm172, are expected to enhance the travel experience for passengers, particularly those seeking overnight journeys across Slovakia and neighboring countries. By investing in these modernized sleeping cars, ZSSK aims to attract a larger customer base, particularly tourists and business travelers who prefer the convenience of overnight rail travel.
This move aligns with broader trends in the European rail market, where operators are increasingly focusing on improving service quality and passenger amenities to compete with other modes of transport. The refurbishment of these sleeping cars could serve as a model for other rail operators looking to upgrade their fleets and enhance customer satisfaction.
