Manufactured in Siedlce, Poland, these zero-emissions, vibrant red trains will ride passengers through the heart of the Italian Alps, joining the bimodal fleet already serving the Aosta Valley. The completion of the project marks another important milestone in Stadler’s long-standing partnership with the Aosta Valley region. The cooperation began in 2015, when the region ordered five bimodal FLIRT trains capable of operating on both electrified lines and non-electrified routes using diesel power. These trains have been successfully operating on the Aosta–Turin route for seven years and quickly became a recognizable symbol of the region.
“We are delighted to have Stadler by our side as a reliable partner and to be able to unveil these new trains. This project represents a significant investment in the future of the Aosta Valley and will help raise the profile of our region amongst tourists, offering a modern, comfortable and sustainable travel experience”, says Laura Obert, Public Transport Director for the Valle d’Aosta Region.
More than 500,000 liters of diesel saved
The bimodal units are now being joined by six new, fully electric FLIRT trains. The new vehicles retain the distinctive design of the existing fleet while offering greater capacity, enhanced passenger comfort, and fully zero-emission operation on this route. Thanks to the electrification of the entire railway line and the introduction of the new trains, more than 500,000 litres of diesel will be saved each year, equivalent to filling the fuel tanks of around 10,000 cars.
Tailored for journeys through the Alps
The new FLIRT trains have been designed with both residents and tourists visiting the Alpine region in mind. Each train offers a total of 236 eco-leather seats, and features modern, air-conditioned interiors, along with dedicated areas for bicycles and ski equipment. The four-car electric trains are also equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) and can reach a maximum speed of 160 km/h.
Agata Prekurat, Project Manager at Stadler Polska explains: “The trains for Valle d’Aosta are also characterized by their lightweight aluminium car bodies as well as reduced axle loads to ensure full compatibility and efficient, safe operation throughout the whole rail network, even on mountain routes.”
Four wide low-floor doors on each side of the train enable fast passenger flow at stations and provide barrier-free boarding.
An ambassador for the Aosta Valley
All six new trains were designed and built in just over two years. Their construction is based on the proven modular FLIRT platform and builds on the experience gained from the bimodal units previously delivered to the Aosta Valley.
Like their predecessors, the new trains feature the region’s distinctive visual identity. Each vehicle carries the “LOVE VDA” heart logo, reflecting the unique landscape, identity and tourist appeal of the Aosta Valley. In this way, the FLIRT trains serve not only as a modern means of transport but also as mobile ambassadors for the region.
“The successful completion of this project is particularly significant for us. It marks another chapter in a partnership that has lasted for more than a decade. At the same time, it demonstrates how the expertise of our teams in Poland contributes to the development of modern rail transport across Europe. We would like to thank the Region Valle d’Aosta for their trust and excellent cooperation throughout the project,” concludes Maurizio Oberti, Sales and Marketing Manager for the Italian market.
Five years of maintenance to ensure sustainable operation
The project extends beyond the delivery of the trains. Stadler will provide maintenance services for the new fleet for five years in close cooperation with the railway operator Trenitalia. A dedicated team of specialists along with the required spare parts and materials, will ensure reliable operation. Careful maintenance extends the service life of the rolling stock, maximising its environmental benefits for years to come.
The new vehicles are being introduced into service on the regional network in stages - in accordance with the operating procedures defined in the operating contract and depending on the progress of electrification work on the Ivrea–Aosta line.
Media contact
Marta Jarosinska
Head of Communications and Marketing
Stadler Polska Sp. z o.o.
Telefon: +48 601 198 003
E-Mail: medien@stadlerrail.com