The final design of GYSEV Zrt.’s new fleet of 11 FLIRT InterCity electric multiple units (EMUs) has been completed, with car body production due to begin this autumn at Stadler’s Szolnok plant in Hungary. The first train is expected to enter service in the final quarter of 2027, with the last units introduced by early 2028.
The contract signed in March 2024 marks a major step for Hungarian rail, as it is the country’s first procurement of new intercity EMUs in three decades. The five-car, dual-voltage trains will operate on both Hungarian and Austrian networks, serving routes such as Sopron–Budapest and Szombathely–Budapest.
Passenger comfort and design
The new trains will feature GYSEV’s green and yellow brand colours alongside an elegant silver base. Interiors will combine grey metal and glass with brown tones and oak wood details. Designed for long-distance travel, the trains will offer first and second-class accommodation, with flexible layouts that allow for more seats in winter and up to 18 bicycle spaces in summer.
Passenger amenities will include air-conditioned, low-floor compartments, modern passenger information systems, additional luggage racks and a bistro area with vending machines. Connectivity will be ensured through Wi-Fi, charging sockets, USB-C ports at every seat, and phone holders to support those working while travelling.
Cooperation with Stadler
GYSEV CEO Szilárd Kövesdi said: “The 11 new InterCity trains will differ in many ways from the regional EMUs purchased previously: the vehicles are optimised for longer journeys, thus perfectly meeting the 21st-century requirements expected in long-distance transport. Thanks to the experts at GYSEV and Stadler, passengers can look forward to an elegant and modern exterior and interior design.”
The trains’ design was developed by GYSEV, Stadler and the Innova Design Team. Production of 55 car bodies will take place in Szolnok, contributing to Stadler’s growing role in Hungary.
Dr Róbert Homolya, chairman of Stadler Trains Hungary, commented: “After a long time, our car body plant in Szolnok is once again producing trains for the Hungarian market. As part of the current order, a total of 55 FLIRT IC car bodies are being built in Szolnok for GYSEV, with production starting this autumn. The handover of trains will mean that there are 200 Stadler-built vehicles in Hungary. Our rolling stock is already the backbone of rail transport in our country, and one in two passengers travels on Stadler trains.”
Stadler’s FLIRT is its most popular product, with more than 2,750 units sold across 21 countries since 2002. In Hungary, GYSEV already operates 20 FLIRTs, while MÁV has 123 in service. The Szolnok factory has contributed to nearly 1,000 FLIRT units worldwide, representing close to 3,900 car bodies.
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