Stadler modernizes GTW trains for MÁV under 93-unit deal

Stadler modernizes GTW trains for MÁV in a transaction that will see 93 GTW railcars from Thurbo upgraded and then resold to the Hungarian operator, as reported by RailwayPro.

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

The project is expected to add around 14,000 seats to passenger rail transport in Hungary and is presented as an environmentally friendly and financially sustainable option, according to a Stadler media release.

In practical terms, the deal gives a “second life” to articulated multiple units that have been operating with Swiss rail operator Thurbo. Stadler will purchase the fleet, complete a full modernization and adaptation program, and deliver the refurbished trains to MÁV.

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A quick alternative to purchasing new rolling stock

MÁV anticipates a significant need to expand its rolling stock fleet in the coming years. Alongside buying new trains, the operator has also expressed interest in modernized second-hand vehicles—an approach noted in related coverage by Railway Supply. After an extensive technical evaluation and an approval process for operation in Hungary, Stadler identified Thurbo’s GTW fleet as a suitable match for MÁV’s requirements.

Against that backdrop, Stadler made two offers: one to Thurbo for the purchase of 93 units, and another to MÁV covering modernization and resale. After detailed negotiations, the parties reached an agreement and signed the contract.

Complete modernization and adaptation to the Hungarian network

The trains will be taken over by Stadler in annual batches between 2027 and 2034 and adapted to the requirements of MÁV. Once modernization is complete, they will replace older vehicles in the Hungarian operator’s fleet and support increased passenger comfort.

The modernization package includes new passenger information systems and video surveillance, along with sliding steps optimized for the height of Hungarian platforms. The trains will also be fitted with an on-board computer for mechanics and a Mirel + ETCS Baseline 4 train protection system. Stadler will convert the traction system to 25 kV, the standard of the Hungarian railway network, and carry out a complete rebranding in MÁV’s corporate colors with new seat upholstery.

The modernization process is expected to take around 12 weeks per train. The prototypes are being built in Switzerland, and Stadler will establish a service base in Hungary for series production and maintenance.

A sustainable model and a new type of business

By purchasing, modernizing, and reselling GTW trains to MÁV, Stadler is positioning the approach as beneficial for all parties involved. Extending the service life of modern railcars is framed as a competitive alternative—both technically and financially—to buying new rolling stock. Stadler notes that the GTW fleet is one of the first large series it delivered in the last two decades, and the project could become a benchmark for similar initiatives.

In total, the Thurbo fleet comprises 110 GTW trains. Starting in 2021, the Swiss operator decided to gradually replace them with 107 FLIRT Evo regional trains, also from Stadler, with the GTW railcars being phased out of service by 2034.

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