Danish rail operator Lokaltog has selected Stadler to supply four RS ZERO battery-electric trains for the Nærum Line. This marks the first European order for Stadler’s new regional train platform.
The trains are scheduled to enter passenger service in the first half of 2031, replacing existing diesel railcars on the 7.8-kilometre route between Jægersborg and Nærum, north of Copenhagen.
The order is subject to political approval, with the contract expected to be signed in early 2027.
The battery-electric trains are intended to eliminate operational CO₂ emissions on the route while reducing noise and vibration compared with the existing diesel services. Lokaltog estimates that replacing the diesel fleet will save approximately 800 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
The RS ZERO platform was developed for regional rail services on lines without continuous overhead electrification. It is based on Stadler’s Regio-Shuttle RS1 vehicle family, of which approximately 500 units have been sold.
Stadler has adapted the platform for battery-electric operation using components and technologies developed through its existing electric and battery train projects. The four trains will be manufactured at Stadler’s facility in Berlin, Germany.
Ansgar Brockmeyer, Stadler's Head of Marketing and Sales and Deputy Group CEO, said:Lokaltog's decision confirms our vision for the RS ZERO. Many regional rail lines across Europe will continue to operate without full electrification in the future. With the RS ZERO, we offer operators an economically viable and environmentally friendly solution to sustainably modernise these routes.
Alongside the trains, Stadler will work with Swiss railway electrification specialist Furrer+Frey to provide the required charging and energy supply infrastructure. Furrer+Frey will supply the technology needed to support battery-electric operations on the Nærum Line, where continuous overhead electrification is not available.
The two companies have previously delivered battery rail solutions in Germany and France.
The RS ZERO order builds on Lokaltog’s existing relationship with Stadler. The Danish operator has already ordered 24 FLIRT Akku battery trains for the Østbanen, Tølløsebanen and Odsherredsbanen lines. Those trains are scheduled to enter service between 2028 and 2029.
