The ATR 465 train test reached a key milestone in Sardinia as the CAF-built tilting DMU successfully completed full-route overnight trials between Cagliari and Olbia.

CAF ATR 465 tilting diesel multiple unit at the Velim test circuit
Archive photo of a CAF-built ATR 465 during testing at the Velim railway test circuit. Photo: Plutowiki / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0.

ATR 465 train test reaches 150 km/h

The test programme took place during the night of 9–10 July and involved the Region of Sardinia, CAF and three FS Group companies: Rete Ferroviaria Italiana, Trenitalia and Italcertifer. According to the official regional announcement⁠, the train covered the route without intermediate stops while no other rail traffic was operating.

The Cagliari–Olbia run lasted 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the train reached a maximum speed of 150 km/h. Engineers used the campaign to assess safety, reliability and technical performance across the complete corridor. However, the authorities stressed that the recorded time does not represent the future passenger timetable, which will depend on the final operating plan.

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The ATR 465 uses active tilting technology, allowing it to negotiate curves at speeds up to 20% higher than conventional rolling stock while maintaining passenger comfort and safety. This capability is particularly relevant on Sardinia’s curved routes, where infrastructure adaptations can support higher operating speeds and shorter journeys.

ATR 465 train test supports infrastructure upgrade

The trials form part of a broader programme financed by the Autonomous Region of Sardinia under its framework agreement with RFI. The FS Group release⁠ says infrastructure investment exceeded EUR 50 million and covered line adaptations, certification and work required for the train’s tilting system.

Two Trenitalia ATR 365 tilting trains at Cagliari station in Sardinia
Two Trenitalia ATR 365 tilting DMUs at Cagliari station in Sardinia. Photo: Nicola Secci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0.

Italcertifer coordinated and supervised the testing campaign, supported the authorization process with ANSFISA and handled vehicle certification against the Technical Specifications for Interoperability and Italian rules. Trenitalia supplied workshop facilities and traincrew after project activities began in September 2025.

Another testing campaign is planned for September 2026, followed by further procedures under ANSFISA’s responsibility. The results will support the future commercial service plan and Sardinia’s efforts to provide faster and more competitive regional rail connections.

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