SBB, Thurbo, and Regionalps Present New Flirt Evo Trains by Stadler

Wedoany.com Report-Nov 19, These single-deck units are scheduled for gradual entry into service starting in 2026, targeting regional routes in Switzerland and cross-border operations.

SBB, Thurbo, and RegionAlps have unveiled the first three Flirt Evo trains manufactured by Stadler. The joint procurement, initiated in 2022, involved 286 single-deck trains at an investment of EUR 2.1 billion. The fleet will replace older train types such as Domino, first-generation Flirt, GTW, and Nina units by 2034, aligning with the expiration of their operational life cycles. Additionally, the operators retain an option for 224 more units, 43 of which have already been confirmed for specific routes, including the Hochrhein-Bodensee-Express and the tri-national Basel S-Bahn.

The Flirt Evo trains are equipped with updated features such as larger multifunctional zones for bicycles, strollers, and luggage, improved mobile connectivity, and accessible amenities, including wheelchair spaces in first class and barrier-free restrooms. The trains also meet requirements for cross-border certification, allowing operations in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and France.

A total of 329 trains, including optional units, will progressively enter service across Swiss regions. Key deployment timelines include 107 units for the Winterthur and eastern Switzerland area under Thurbo from 2026 and 24 units for the Valais region under RegionAlps. SBB will begin operations in various regions from 2028 onward, with 33 units allocated for the tri-national Basel S-Bahn by 2031.

All units will undergo testing and preparation for service at Stadler's facility in Weinfelden. The new fleet is designed to optimize standardization across regional operations, leveraging synergies in maintenance and fleet management.