Stadler will modernize 93 GTW railcars belonging to Swiss rail operator Thurbo and resell them to Hungarian operator MÁV, giving them a “second life” in service. The project will add approximately 14,000 additional seats to passenger rail transport in Hungary and represents both an environmentally friendly and financially sustainable solution.
A quick alternative to purchasing new rolling stock
MÁV anticipates a significant need to expand its rolling stock fleet in the coming years and, in addition to purchasing new trains, has expressed interest in modernized second-hand vehicles. Following an extensive technical evaluation and approval process for operation in Hungary, Stadler identified Thurbo’s GTW fleet as a suitable option for the Hungarian operator’s requirements.
In this context, Stadler submitted an offer to Thurbo for the purchase of 93 articulated multiple units, as well as to MÁV for their modernization and resale. After detailed negotiations, the parties reached an agreement and the contract was signed.
Complete modernization and adaptation to the Hungarian network
The trains will be taken over by Stadler in annual batches between 2027 and 2034 and adapted to the requirements of MÁV. After modernization, they will replace older vehicles in the Hungarian operator’s fleet, contributing to increased passenger comfort.
The modernization package includes:
- new passenger information systems;
- video surveillance;
- sliding steps optimized for the height of Hungarian platforms;
- on-board computer for mechanics;
- Mirel + ETCS Baseline 4 train protection system;
- conversion of the traction system to 25 kV, the standard of the Hungarian railway network;
- complete rebranding in MÁV’s corporate colors and new seat upholstery.
The modernization process takes approximately 12 weeks for each train. The prototypes are being built in Switzerland, and Stadler will establish a service base in Hungary for series production and maintenance.
A sustainable model and a new type of business
By purchasing, modernizing, and reselling GTW trains to MÁV, Stadler is creating a business model that is advantageous for all parties involved. Extending the service life of modern railcars is a competitive alternative, both technically and financially, to purchasing new rolling stock.
The GTW fleet is one of the first large series delivered by Stadler in the last two decades, and this project could become a benchmark for similar initiatives in the future.
In total, the Thurbo fleet comprises 110 GTW trains. Starting in 2021, the Swiss operator has decided to gradually replace them with 107 FLIRT Evo regional trains, also from Stadler, with the GTW railcars being phased out of service by 2034.
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