Fig.: Stadler
The success story of the Flirt multiple units from the Swiss rail manufacturer Stadler – and especially on partially electrified lines, the success of the battery-powered hybrid trains – continues. After more than 2,500 Flirts sold worldwide, the first order has now come from Lithuania.
Lithuanian rail operator LTG Link is initially procuring 15 trainsets. The Lithuanian rail operator also plans to exercise its contract options for up to 13 electric Flirt Intercity trainsets, 15 battery-electric Flirt trainsets with a 100 km range, and 11 battery-electric Flirt trainsets with a 70 km range. In the first order, Stadler will deliver nine electric Flirt trains for Intercity service and six battery-electric Flirt trains for operation on non-electrified lines. Stadler will also provide technical support and spare parts for ten years from the delivery of the last train in the initial order.
"The various drive options enable environmentally friendly rail operations. I am delighted that our trains will soon be carrying passengers in Lithuania," said Peter Spuhler, Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Stadler.
"Design work for the trains, which are specially adapted to Lithuania, will begin soon. For the first time in Europe, battery-powered trains suitable for harsh climates and broad-gauge railways will be manufactured." “And together with the supplier who won the public tender, we will ensure their efficient operation for many years to come,” says Linas Baužys, head of LTG Link.
The nine electric Flirt Intercity multiple units are 93-meter-long, five-car units. They offer space for up to 200 passengers, including 16 first-class passengers. Each train can accommodate 14 to 30 bicycles, depending on the season and route-specific requirements. A spacious luggage compartment and a toilet will also be provided.
The battery-electric version.
The six battery-electric Flirt multiple units, each over 65 meters long, consist of three passenger cars and a special power pack car housing the traction batteries. Each unit can accommodate up to 128 passengers and 6 to 30 bicycles, depending on route requirements. The trains are equipped with a toilet and a vending machine offering snacks for passengers. These trains will replace the diesel trains currently operating on non-electrified lines. They are designed to operate on the most demanding sections of Lithuania's railway infrastructure without power from the overhead lines, thus enabling emission-free operation on non-electrified routes.
With this LTG Link order, Stadler continues its success story in the Baltic states. Stadler previously delivered 38 Flirt multiple units to the Estonian operator Elron in 2012 and 2014.
