Trains in Latvia reveal a concerning rate of window faults, with one out of every ten windows displaying defects.
In an ongoing effort to improve the travel experience for passengers, the windows with defects on Czech Škoda electric trains are being replaced. As of now, 60% of the damaged windows have been replaced, with approximately 130 windows still waiting to be replaced. The replacement process is ongoing, and the manufacturer has promised to complete the work by the end of summer or, at the latest, by November 2021.
The defects, which primarily cause fogging up, do not affect passenger safety. These issues were identified by the company last autumn, and repairs are being carried out to address them.
Meanwhile, the installation of bicycle racks on the trains is progressing. As of now, bicycle racks have been installed on 19 Škoda electric trains, with the remaining 13 trainsets due to have them installed by the end of June. This project, worth just under €890,000, aims to equip all 24 trains needed for daily services with bicycle racks.
Passengers are encouraged to check the Vivi mobile app before traveling to see if a train has bicycle racks. The app indicates whether a train has bicycle racks with an icon, making it easier for passengers who wish to travel with their bicycles.
It is important to note that, as of August 2025, there is no publicly available detailed information regarding a timeline for the resolution of these window issues on Škoda trains. If you seek the latest progress, it is recommended to contact Škoda Transportation directly or check official Czech railway operator communications for announcements.
Sigita Paula, a representative of the train company, has confirmed the recurring nature of these defects. The repairs for these defects are covered under warranty by the manufacturer.
References: 1. July 29, 2025, broadcast transcript mentioning transport and technical systems 2. General information about Škoda electric vehicles 3. Electric bus manufacturing issues unrelated to train window defects 4. Other vehicle manufacturing topics unrelated to train window defects
- A representative from Škoda Transportation, Sigita Paula, has stated that the issues with the fogging windows on their electric trains are recurring.
- The company is working to replace the remaining damaged windows on Czech Škoda electric trains, with 60% already being replaced.
- As part of the ongoing effort to improve travel experiences, bicycle racks have been installed on 19 out of 24 Škoda electric trains, with the remaining 13 trainsets due to have them installed by the end of June.
- While updates on the timeline for the resolution of these window issues are scarce, passengers can find information on public transportation alternatives like bicycle racks by checking the Vivi mobile app or contacting Škoda Transportation directly.