Hungary Plans to Purchase Used Electric Trains for Railway Modernization

Hungary Buys Used Electric Trains for Railway Modernization. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Hungary is considering purchasing used electric trains from Switzerland to modernize its railway transport. This decision aims to improve passenger services and increase punctuality.

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The country’s railway network faces significant challenges, as outdated train fleets can no longer handle passenger demand. Currently, punctuality levels stand at 75%, while in Switzerland, this figure reaches 90-100%.

Minister of Construction and Transport János Lázár noted that Hungarian trains remain in operation for 40-50 years, whereas in Switzerland, rolling stock is replaced every ten years. Therefore, Hungary is exploring the option of acquiring trains that SBB will decommission after introducing new Stadler Flirtmodels.

Hungary and the Prospects of Acquiring Used Trains

Swiss railway operator SBB plans to replace outdated models after deploying a new generation of electric trains. This will create an opportunity for Hungary to purchase decommissioned trains that are still in good technical condition.

According to the business newspaper Világgazdaság, Hungary may acquire the following train models:

• 60 double-decker Bombardier TWINDEXXtrains;

• 113 Stadler Kisselectric trains;

• 60 Siemens Desirotrains;

• 110 Stadler GTWtrains;

• More than 200 Stadler Flirtunits.

How Hungary is Upgrading its Railway Infrastructure?

The state railway company MÁV has announced plans to purchase 285 passenger carriages as part of a fleet renewal program. Additionally, 100 passenger carriages are set to be returned to operation by the summer of this year.

Furthermore, the plan includes leasing 40 locomotives this year and additional units in 2026. Currently, 150 out of 200 electric locomotives in operation have been in service for 40-60 years, and at least 100 of these are expected to be replaced by the summer of 2026.

This modernization initiative aims to enhance railway transport quality, reduce delays, and improve passenger service. Upgrading transport infrastructure remains a key priority for the government.

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