Switzerland-based Stadler has secured an order from DB Regio to deliver 44 FLIRT battery-powered multiple units for the south-west German Palatinate network.
These two-car vehicles are expected to commence operations from 2025.
On behalf of the commissioning authorities responsible for Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland and Baden-Württemberg, the companies will introduce an upcoming technology to the Palatinate through these new battery-electric multiple units (BEMU).
By the end of 2026, these units will eventually take the place of diesel vehicles that are presently in use.
Additionally, this deal comes at a time when DB Regio secured a contract within the framework of the European award procedure for the Palatinate networks (2 lots).
This contract was awarded by the Zweckverband Schienenpersonennahverkehr Rheinland-Pfalz Süd, the Saarland Ministry for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Transport, and the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Transport.
The new 55m-long trains will be completely electric and can operate on networks featuring electrified portions alternate with line without overhead contact tracks.
With the capacity to carry around 325 passengers, these ‘ultra-modern’ trains are said to be extremely flexible.
