Stadler has been awarded a contract in Germany by the BeNEX Group, a German company specialising in investments and the operation of public rail and bus transportation services, to modernise seven Flirt electric trains.
Work will begin in the summer of 2026 at the Nordbahn workshop in Hamburg and at the Stadler facility in Berlin-Reinickendorf.
The project aims to enhance passenger comfort through modern amenities and additional space for luggage and bicycles.
The tender for the train modernization was organized by BeNEX, and the contract is being implemented by two of the group’s companies: WestfalenBahn GmbH and NBE Nordbahn Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH & Co. KG.
The trains, which have been in service since 2014 with the operator Nordbahn, will run—following modernization—on the RE34 Dortmund–Siegerland-Express regional express line, which will be operated by WestfalenBahn starting with the December 2026 timetable change.
Comprehensive Modernization for Greater Comfort
The contract calls for an extensive renovation of the rolling stock. In addition to refreshing the exterior design, the interiors will be modernized by installing new tables and armrests, as well as reconfiguring the interior layout. The changes aim to optimize the space available for bicycles and luggage by adjusting the seat configuration.
At the same time, the trains will benefit from significant technical improvements, including the installation of a Wi-Fi network, USB ports for charging devices, and additional electrical outlets. All work will be carried out in accordance with the necessary approval procedures.
The project has a set implementation schedule, as the modernization of the first train will begin this summer with the installation of the Wi-Fi system, and the entire program is scheduled to be completed by the summer of 2029.
NBE nordbahn operates regional rail services in Hamburg and the state of Schleswig-Holstein under contracts awarded by Nahverkehrsverbund Schleswig-Holstein GmbH (NAH.SH) and the City of Hamburg.
Since 2024, the company has been operating 8.3 million train-kilometers annually, holding a 30% market share in the regional passenger rail transport segment in Schleswig-Holstein and Hamburg.
Since the 2023 timetable change, Nordbahn has been operating three rail networks: the Mitte network, served by 16 Stadler Flirt 3 EMUs, as well as the battery-powered East-West and North networks, operated with 29 new and innovative Flirt Akku EMUs manufactured by Stadler and purchased by the state of Schleswig-Holstein.
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