Transdev is modernising its fleet in Germany with the introduction of 16 four-unit Stadler FLIRT 3 XL articulated trainsets.
These join the rail operator’s existing fleet of 35 Alstom Coradia Continental trains and were ordered after Transdev-owned NordWestBahn was awarded the Regional S-Bahn Bremen/Niedersachsen franchise in 2019 to deliver additional services and increase capacity on the route.
More frequent services came into effect after a timetable change on 11 December, when the Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB) took over the line from Traunstein to Ruhpolding, and three of the new FLIRT trainsets entered service.
The 86.9-metre-long low floor, barrier free trains have a maximum speed of 160 kilometres per hour. Seven passenger doors on each side enable passengers to enter and exit quickly, and each vehicle has a maximum capacity of 527 passengers, with seating for 260.
The vehicles also have a modern passenger information system, wi-fi throughout and large multi-purpose areas that provide space to transport up to 30 bicycles.
Stadler’s FLIRT 3 model has been a favourite of BRB for some time – 35 have been operating on its Chiemgau-Inntal network between Munich, Salzburg and Innsbruck since 2013.
Transdev also plans to expand its fleet further with the addition of a Stadler FLIRT EMU and LINT DMU for operation around Augsburg.
