Between 2005 and 2014, an extensive modernisation programme was undertaken at Velim; this involved most aspects of its operations, including power supplies, signalling, overhead electrification, preparation halls, and track.
[2] Both of the standard gauge test circuits were purpose-built for the facility during 1963, and are located between the villages of Vrbová Lhota, Ratenice, Cerhenice, Velim, Pňov-Předhradí and the southern suburbs of Poděbrady.
[3] Much of the site's infrastructure has been progressively replaced during the 21st century due to numerous elements such as the power supplies, catenary and even the track itself no longer satisfying some customers' requirements.
Other infrastructure would also be constructed onsite which is aimed at improving the test centre's environmental footprint and reduce carbon emissions; a new plant will be established to produce green hydrogen to fuel hydrail rolling stock.
It has become particularly commonplace for numerous train construction companies across Europe opting to send their rolling stock there to undergo intensive testing to satisfy increasingly vigorous certification requirements.
To this end, Velim became a fully accredited European test centre in March 1995,[2] and became a notified body for carrying out vehicle and equipment authorisations in accordance with the Technical Specifications for Interoperability.