Austrian rail operator ÖBB has ordered seven more FLIRT Akku battery-powered electric trains from Swiss manufacturer Stadler as part of its regional transport modernization and decarbonization program.
The trains will be used in Lower Austria and are scheduled for delivery in 2028.
The new units will enable emission-free operation on non-electrified lines and will gradually replace diesel trains starting in 2029, including on the Kamptalbahn and Erlauftalbahn lines.
Battery trains for non-electrified lines
The FLIRT Akku can run both under overhead lines and on batteries on non-electrified sections. Energy is stored in on-board batteries and used when the train runs on non-electrified lines.
According to the manufacturer, each train will have over 160 seats, step-free access for people with reduced mobility, space for bicycles and prams, as well as power sockets and USB-C ports.
Savings of 500,000 liters of diesel per year
The introduction of the seven FLIRT Akku trains will save approximately 500,000 liters of diesel per year compared to the diesel trains that will be withdrawn.
According to Stadler, this will reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 1,200 tons annually.
The order is part of the framework agreement signed in 2023 between ÖBB and Stadler for up to 120 FLIRT Akku trains. The first order included 16 trains for the Kamptalbahn line.
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