Pulsaart by AGC Selected by České dráhy to Improve Mobile Signal Reception with WAVETHRU™ Retrofit

Pulsaart by AGC (AGC Glass Europe) has been awarded a major public tender to enhance mobile connectivity on board České dráhy trains through the deployment of its WAVETHRU™ Retrofit technology.

The project will involve the large-scale treatment of train windows across 233 train cars. These vehicles serve both domestic and international rail routes throughout the Czech Republic. The full rollout is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with all retrofit work carried out by Pulsaart by AGC teams directly on-site at multiple České dráhy depots across the country.

This initiative supports České dráhy’s broader strategy to deliver an improved travel experience through better onboard digital connectivity. The contract, valued at CZK 29 million (approximately 1.1 million euros), is funded by the Czech Telecommunication Office under a national program supporting mobile signal accessibility in public transport vehicles.

Improving Mobile Connectivity Inside Trains

One of the key challenges in enabling strong mobile reception inside train carriages is the presence of metallic thermal insulation coatings on windows. While beneficial for energy efficiency, these coatings significantly block radio frequency signals, reducing the quality of mobile network access for passengers.

WAVETHRU™ Retrofit addresses this problem using a high-precision laser treatment that subtly modifies the coating. The result is a virtually invisible micro-pattern that improves signal transparency without affecting the insulation or visual clarity of the glass. The treatment is non-intrusive, efficient, and performed directly on-site, with no need to remove the windows.

Building Momentum across Europe

This project marks an important milestone for Pulsaart by AGC in the ongoing effort to bring innovative connectivity solutions to the European rail sector. The company’s technology is already in use across the continent, helping multiple rail operators meet increasing passenger expectations for stable, high-quality mobile service during travel.

“Reliable mobile connectivity is becoming a fundamental expectation for rail passengers,” said Yvain Cornet, CEO of Pulsaart by AGC. “This partnership with České dráhy reflects a shared commitment to smarter and more connected mobility. WAVETHRU™ Retrofit offers a practical, scalable, and sustainable solution that brings immediate value to rail operators and passengers alike, without the need for disruptive changes to train design.”

As part of AGC Glass Europe, Pulsaart continues to deliver advanced technologies at the crossroads of glass innovation and wireless communication. Through projects like this, the company is helping to build the foundation for smarter and more connected mobility across Europe and worldwide.