Lithuanian Railways has celebrated the service entry of the first of 15 brand-new Stadler FLIRT electric trains, which has now begun operating on the Vilnius–Kaunas–Vilnius route.
The remaining trains will enter operation over the course of the coming months, gradually replacing existing trains on some of of the country’s most important rail routes.
Signifying the start of the largest LTG Link train fleet renewal in the history of independent Lithuania, the train’s arrival was celebrated with a gathering at Vilnius Railway Station.
Whilst the first train has now entered service on the Vilnius–Kaunas–Vilnius route, it will later begin serving passengers on the Vilnius–Klaipėda–Vilnius route, and, by the end of the year, the train is expected to be serving the majority of trips along this route.
Elsewhere, battery-powered trains will begin carrying passengers this December. Their introduction will allow modern, electric-powered rolling stock to be used across entire lines, including on sections lacking full electrification. These trains will first be deployed on the Kaunas–Šiauliai–Kaunas and Radviliškis–Klaipėda–Radviliškis routes, and, in the second half of December, on the Vilnius–Varėna–Marcinkonys–Vilnius route.
Minister of Transport Juras Taminskas, said:After many years, the passenger train fleet is finally undergoing a major overhaul. This is one of the most significant changes in the history of the railways since independence, and passengers will be the first to feel the benefits. The new trains will offer a completely new travel experience—with significantly more space, comfort, and modern amenities.
Trips will be quieter, and the passenger compartments and seats will be more spacious, featuring tables and charging ports for electronic devices, while passengers will be able to enjoy a cup of coffee or a snack in the bistro area. Travel will also be more convenient for people with mobility impairments, parents with strollers, and cyclists, as the needs of every passenger have been carefully considered.
Each of the new Stadler FLIRT trains have been built to offer a more spacious interior, provide greater capacity, and have been adapted to meet the diverse needs of passengers, including those with mobility challenges. To this end, ramps and interior design features will aim to ensure easier movement, whilst the rolling stock’s increased capacity will aim to allow for more efficient handling of passenger flows during peak hours.
Additionally, for the first time in several decades, the trains will also feature bistro areas where passengers will be able to purchase both hot food and beverages. They will be equipped with extra space for bicycles, as well as other solutions designed for a more modern travel experience. They are all more than a half metre wider than standard models.
In total, LTG Link has purchased 15 trains from Stadler, nine of which are completely electric and six battery-powered, with the latter able to operate on both electrified and non-electrified railway lines.
The contract also provides the option to purchase additional trains of the same type in the future in order to expand the modernised LTG Link fleet.
