The new trains are intended for use on regional lines in and around Helsinki and in the Tampere region. According to Stadler, the FLIRT EMUs can also be used as intercity trains if needed in the future. Delivery of the first vehicle is scheduled for Spring 2026.
The contract Stadler and VR Group contract also includes the supply of spare parts, as well as the option for 50 additional multiple units and the expansion of services to Stadler’s full-service model.
Stadler has extensive experience in the production of rolling stock for challenging climatic conditions. There are already 81 FLIRTs on the tracks in Finland – and FLIRTs are also in use in Sweden, Norway, and Estonia. Especially in these countries, the FLIRT proves its suitability for severe winter conditions. Stadler has sold more than 2,500 FLIRT units worldwide.
The new FLIRTs as part of the VR Group contract will also be specially adapted for the Nordic climate in Finland. These include large snow ploughs, efficient air-conditioning technology including underfloor heating in the entrance areas, as well as special insulation and well-sealed machine rooms to protect the drive technology.
In 2019, signed a contract with VR Group for the supply of 60 diesel-electric locomotives to improve the operational efficiency in marshalling yards, freight terminals and on non-electrified lines which at the time made up 45% of the Finnish rail network. According to the contract, the first five locomotives were expected to enter service in 2022, with the remaining locomotives gradually delivered until the end of 2025.
“After the 60 locomotives, we are proud to be able to deliver our bestseller FLIRT to the VR Group. The FLIRT has already proven its versatility and robustness thousands of times over – from the Arctic Circle to Africa. The new vehicles will provide VR passengers with an environmentally friendly, reliable, and comfortable travel experience – even in harsh winter weather conditions,” said Dr Ansgar Brockmeyer, executive vice president of sales and marketing and deputy group CEO of Stadler.
Elisa Markula, CEO of VR Group, added, “Stadler’s offering meets our needs exactly. This is how we at VR Group want the trains of the future: energy-efficient, accessible to all, spacious and comfortable. We are delighted to have Stadler at our side as a partner in our mission to work together to make the world a better place.”