Stadler and the southern Italian railway company Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) have unveiled Europe’s first tailor-made narrow-gauge battery-electric train at EXPO Ferroviaria in Milan, marking a major step forward in sustainable regional mobility.
The new trains will save more than 1,300 tonnes of CO₂ annually,
“This is the first battery-powered narrow-gauge train for Italy and Europe – a 100% environmentally friendly vehicle that will reshape the future of sustainable mobility in the Basilicata region,” said Maurizio Oberti, Sales Director for the Italian market at Stadler. “We are proud to bring our green technologies to Italy and to contribute to the environmental sustainability of Matera and Basilicata. We thank FAL for their trust and excellent cooperation throughout this project.”
Stefano Di Bello, General Director of FAL, added: “Ferrovie Appulo Lucane continues to invest in innovation and future-proof transport. Two years ago, at EXPO Ferroviaria, we presented this project with Transport Minister Matteo Salvini. Today, we already have the first of seven trains, which will enter service on the Altamura–Matera line by the end of 2026. Thanks to cooperation between FAL, the Ministry of Transport, the Basilicata Region and the Municipality of Matera, we have achieved a total investment of €63 million, financed through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), its complementary fund, and the PON-PAC 2014-2020 programme. Following an EU-wide procurement procedure, Stadler was selected to manufacture the trains.”
Vittorio Zizza, President of FAL, emphasised the environmental ambition: “Our goal is to fully decarbonise the Altamura–Matera line. FAL has long pursued a green strategy, reflected in the livery of the new TREEN brand, which symbolises sustainability and respect for the environment. This project demonstrates our commitment to environmentally friendly mobility, supported by the forward-thinking approach of the Basilicata Region.”
Built in Switzerland, serving southern Italy
The bespoke trains are being produced at Stadler’s headquarters in Bussnang, Switzerland, and will expand FAL’s existing fleet. The first unit was officially presented at the Milan exhibition. The contract for seven battery-powered narrow-gauge trains was signed between 2023 and 2024, following the initiative of the Basilicata Region and the Municipality of Matera to introduce cleaner trains in the region.
Before entering service, the trains will undergo extensive testing under the supervision of Italy’s transport safety agency, ANSFISA.
Over 1,300 tonnes of CO₂ saved per year
Replacing the current diesel fleet with the new battery-electric trains will reduce CO₂ emissions by more than 1,300 tonnes per year – equivalent to around 650 flights from Zurich to Thailand.
Sustainability has guided every aspect of the design, from the high-capacity battery system and energy-efficient LED lighting to seat upholstery made from recycled materials and dedicated space for e-bikes. The distinctive design highlights the strong connection between the trains and their natural surroundings.
Advanced technology and passenger comfort
Each train features a high-performance battery drive installed above the motor car to ensure optimal traction and stability in all conditions. The system offers short charging times, long range, and reliable performance.
Passengers will benefit from a bright, comfortable interior with panoramic windows and a low-floor entrance providing easy access for those with reduced mobility.
With this project, FAL and Stadler have taken an important step toward greener regional rail transport in Italy, setting a benchmark for sustainable innovation across Europe.
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