Stadler and Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn GmbH (ODEG) have presented a preview of a new generation of environmentally friendly regional rail services in West Mecklenburg, showcasing the battery-powered FLIRT Akku multiple unit during a special demonstration journey between Schwerin and Parchim.
Although not yet in operation, the journey marked a symbolic launch for the introduction of the new fleet, set to enter passenger service from December 2027. The event featured a FLIRT Akku train on loan from the Schleswig-Holstein transport association NAH.SH—the same model that will form part of ODEG’s new fleet.
ODEG was awarded the “Westmecklenburg II” public transport contract in December 2024. As part of the contract, the operator has ordered 14 FLIRT Akku trains from Stadler, designed to operate emission-free on non-electrified rail lines. The new trains are scheduled for deployment on several regional routes, including RB13 (Rehna – Schwerin – Parchim), RB14 (Hagenow Stadt – Ludwigslust – Parchim), RB15 (Waren (Müritz) – Malchow – Plau am See, seasonal), and RB19 (Parchim – Plau am See, seasonal).
The FLIRT Akku fleet offers a range of modern features:
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Local, emission-free operation using battery propulsion
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98 seats, spacious multipurpose areas, and step-free access
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Onboard Wi-Fi and real-time passenger information systems
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Combined operation under overhead catenary with automatic battery charging, and autonomous battery operation on non-electrified segments
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An exterior design reflecting the colours of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
The vehicles are currently under development and manufacture by Stadler, and will be maintained at ODEG’s expanded ODIG facility in Parchim.
“Today’s journey shows what is possible – and what will soon become reality,” said Jure Mikolčić, CEO of Stadler Division Germany. “The FLIRT Akku represents a new generation of climate-friendly mobility, and we are delighted to be embarking on this journey together with ODEG.”
Stefan Neubert, Managing Director of ODEG, added: “In West Mecklenburg, we are committed to modern, environmentally friendly mobility – quiet, comfortable and suitable for everyday use by our passengers. The FLIRT Akku vehicle concept offered by Stadler has convinced us and will help us to achieve this goal in the best possible way.”
The project is supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) under the “Guideline for the Promotion of Alternative Drives in Rail Transport”. Additional funding is being provided through the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), as part of Germany’s national recovery plan (DARP) under the NextGenerationEU programme. The funding initiative is coordinated by NOW GmbH and managed by Project Management Jülich (PtJ).
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