NS orders 36 Stadler FLIRT trains under a new framework contract between Stadler and Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS). The deal supports the growing use of trains in the Netherlands and reinforces the long-standing partnership between the two companies, as outlined in a recent Stadler media release.

NS orders 36 Stadler FLIRT trains for Dutch network
Photo: Stadler

NS orders 36 Stadler FLIRT trains for Dutch routes

Under the agreement, NS will receive 36 Stadler FLIRT commuter trains, split into 18 four-car and 18 six-car units. All of these Stadler FLIRT commuter trains will be built entirely in Poland and are planned to enter service in 2030.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

FLIRT is Stadler’s “Flinker Leichter Intercity- und Regional-Triebzug”, which translates as “fast, light, innovative intercity and regional train” in English. Thanks to this flexible concept, the new trains can be deployed both on local “sprinter” services and as intercity trains on suitable routes.

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Accessible Stadler FLIRT commuter trains for all passengers

A major priority of the NS order for 36 Stadler FLIRT trains is full accessibility. The trains are being designed so that passengers can board through the entrance doors and then move along the interior with ease. Special areas will be reserved for travellers with reduced mobility, complemented by generous space for luggage, pushchairs and bicycles. Clear signage and real-time passenger information displays will help passengers find their way on board and stay informed throughout the journey.

Comfort, modular design and international FLIRT fleet

Inside, NS and Stadler are focusing on creating a calm and pleasant travel environment. The interior will feature ambient lighting that automatically adjusts to external conditions, varying according to the time of day and season to support passenger comfort.

Stadler’s FLIRT family is already a well-established modular train platform, described in more detail in Railway Supply’s overview of next-generation Stadler FLIRT electric trains. More than 3,000 FLIRT trains operate in 24 countries worldwide, including with Transport for Wales, and 134 FLIRT units are currently in service in the Netherlands. As Railway-News reports, the new modular FLIRT trains for NS will be engineered at Stadler’s site in Prague in the Czech Republic, while construction will take place at the Stadler factory in Siedlce, Poland.

“We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Stadler and to introduce these new sprinter trains in the Netherlands,” said NS CEO Wouter Koolmees. “It is important to us that these trains are reliable and modern. They are suitable for various routes and services. This means we are well equipped for the future and can continue to meet the changing needs of our passengers.”

Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales and Deputy Group CEO at Stadler, noted that NS was looking for a modern vehicle for local transport that could also be used as an intercity train. “The FLIRT train impressed NS with its modular and versatile concept,” he said. “Passengers can look forward to a comfortable, bright and well-designed train. I would like to thank NS for their trust and look forward to continuing our collaboration.”

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