On 12 March 2025, Stadler and WESTbahn announced the signing of a contract for the delivery of three SMILE high-speed trains. Set to enter service in March 2026, the trains will operate on the Vienna – Graz – Klagenfurt – Villach route, enhancing passenger experience with their modern design and advanced features. The trains will be manufactured in Bussnang, Switzerland.
This marks the first deployment of Stadler’s SMILE high-speed train in Austria, capable of reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h. The introduction of these trains represents an expansion of the WESTbahn network and underscores Stadler’s role in advancing rail travel in the country.
SMILE high-speed train features
The SMILE high-speed trains are designed to provide an improved travel experience, offering:
- Low-floor, barrier-free access
- A spacious, open interior design
- Air-conditioned, pressure-resistant passenger compartments and driver’s cab
- Step-free access and an accessible toilet in each carriage
- Dedicated bicycle areas
- Adjustable seats in all classes
- Free WiFi
- USB ports and power sockets at every seat
The new 11-car trains will support WESTbahn’s efforts to modernise its fleet, setting a new standard for sustainable rail travel. Designed for cross-border routes, they will operate at significantly higher speeds than previous trains in Austria.
Service integration from March 2026
The three SMILE trains will be introduced into WESTbahn’s regular passenger service in March 2026, just two years after the contract signing. This is notably faster than the typical four-to-five-year commissioning period.
“We are delighted to have an innovative and forward-looking partner in WESTbahn, and together, be able to deploy state-of-the-art high-speed trains within a very short space of time. The SMILE trains feature the most innovative technologies, high energy efficiency and maximum passenger comfort,” said Christian Diewald, Managing Director of Stadler Austria.
Technical Specifications
- Length: 202m
- Carriages: 11
- Maximum speed: 250 km/h
- Maximum acceleration: 0.77 m/s²
- Track gauge: 1,435 mm
- Drive: Electric, multi-system (15 kV AC, 25 kV AC, 3 kV DC)
- Low-floor access: Compatible with platform heights of 55 cm and 76 cm
- Air-sprung drive and bogies
- Redundant drive equipment with four traction converters powering four motorised bogies
- TSI authorisation for network access in Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and Austria
The introduction of these high-speed trains marks a significant step in modernising Austria’s rail network, delivering faster, more efficient, and sustainable transport for passengers.
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