Stadler lands Slovenian train order

Stadler is designing and building 26 single- and double-deck multiple units (DMUs) for the Slovenian state rail operator Slovenske Železnice. The order comprises 11 FLIRT EMU trains, five FLIRT DMU trains, and 10 KISS EMU trains, plus an option for 26 additional vehicles. The different types of trains are being engineered in a way that allows mixed compositions within the fleet. This is Stadler's first contract from Slovenia.

Back in the late 1990s, Stadler submitted a bid for a contract to deliver 30 multiple units to Slovenia, but lost out to the competition after a hotly contested tender.

“It delights us even more that 20 years later, our second attempt has been successful and we have managed to break into the Slovenian market," explains Peter Spuhler, owner/CEO of Stadler.

The contract for the fleet capable of mixed traction consists of the engineering, construction, and delivery of the 26 vehicles, including warranty coverage, as well as an option for 26 additional vehicles.

Stadler's best-selling FLIRT vehicle has already sold over 1,500 units in a total of 18 countries. The KISS is also very popular, with nearly 300 units in 11 countries. Stadler trains operate in a total of 41 countries.

The single-decker FLIRT trains are intended for cross-border use on standard gauge track between Slovenia, Austria, and Croatia. They will also be authorized for use in these countries. The double-decker KISS trains will operate on routes in Slovenia. The first units are expected to be delivered 24 months after the contract signature date.

One notable feature of the contract is that the Slovenian state rail operator will be able to operate routes with mixed trains composed of single-decker and double-decker cars as well as using the single-decker vehicles in double traction.