Slovenian Railways Modernizes Fleet with Stadler FLIRT and KISS Units

Slovenske Železnice (SŽ), the Slovenian state railway operator, has completed a significant fleet renewal project, taking delivery of the final units from a 2018 order of 72 FLIRT and KISS trains manufactured by Stadler Rail. This modernization effort addresses aging infrastructure and aims to improve passenger service across Slovenia and neighboring countries.

Addressing Legacy Fleet Issues

The acquisition of these new trains is a crucial step in replacing SŽ’s aging fleet, many units of which dated back to the 1970s. The new FLIRT and KISS units are designed to provide a more reliable and comfortable travel experience for passengers. The development of the unit specifications for Slovenia was largely conducted at Stadler Prague.

FLIRT and KISS Unit Details

The order comprises a diverse range of units:

• 41 Diesel-Electric FLIRT Units: Capable of operating at speeds up to 140 km/h. These units are designed with the flexibility to be converted to fully electric operation by removing the diesel module.
• 21 Electric FLIRT Units: Operating at speeds up to 160 km/h.
• 10 Double-Decker KISS Units: Providing increased passenger capacity.

The latest order, placed in 2023, focused on diesel units of the S Na 610-100 series. The three-car units feature 171 seats, including 12 in first class, and are equipped with modern amenities such as low floors, air conditioning, ETCS, power sockets, and Wi-Fi. The 2023 contract was valued at 148 million euros.

Cross-Border Operation and Future Plans

The new units are approved for operation not only in Slovenia but also in Austria and Croatia, facilitating cross-border rail travel. SŽ continues to invest in modernization, having also signed a contract in 2023 for the purchase of 20 express cars for international transport and four multi-system locomotives.

Although the new FLIRT and KISS units represent a significant upgrade, SŽ plans to phase out many of its older vehicles, retaining only a limited number for backup purposes. Currently, 30 Siemens Desiro units and three Pendolino trains remain in operation alongside the new Stadler fleet.

About Stadler FLIRT

FLIRT stands for “Fast Light Intercity and Regional Train,” reflecting the versatility of these units for both regional and intercity services. SŽ 610 Stadler FLIRT are manufactured by Swiss company Stadler Rail.