Stadler’s fleet of 123 FLIRT trains operated by Hungarian state railway company MÁV has reached a cumulative distance of over 300 million kilometres since entering service in 2007. According to the manufacturer, the trains have contributed to estimated electricity savings worth EUR 250 million and helped reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 2 million tonnes over this period.
The FLIRT units in Hungary, now approaching a third of their planned operational lifespan, are expected to recoup their original purchase value through energy efficiency alone by the end of their lifecycle. Each FLIRT unit covers a minimum of 200,000 kilometres annually and collectively they make up around a third of MÁV’s total rolling stock mileage.
The savings reported are largely attributed to the trains’ modern electric traction systems, which consume significantly less energy than older rolling stock. Stadler also noted that maintenance efficiencies associated with the newer train types further contribute to cost reductions for the operator.
With the addition of other Stadler-built vehicles such as double-deck KISS units and tram-trains, the manufacturer estimates that around half of all MÁV passengers in Hungary now travel on its trains.
Commenting on the milestone, Róbert Homolya, Chairman of Stadler Trains Hungary, said:
“We are proud of the milestone achieved not only because our well-known FLIRT trains offer an outstanding 96% availability rate thanks to the precise maintenance carried out in our country. But also because we can provide the backbone of sustainable rail transport, providing the Hungarian audience with a comfortable and environmentally friendly travel experience.”
The first FLIRT units for Hungary were delivered nearly two decades ago, with continuous fleet expansion supporting MÁV’s efforts to modernise its services and improve environmental performance.
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