Stadler and Arriva Expand Dutch Regional Fleet with FLIRT Order

Stadler and Arriva Nederland have signed a contract for five new FLIRT trains for regional services in the Netherlands. The units will operate on the Vechtdallijnen as Arriva expands capacity and transitions toward electric traction.

Stadler and Arriva Nederland have signed a contract for the delivery of five FLIRT trains. The vehicles will be deployed on the Vechtdallijnen in the Dutch provinces of Overijssel and Drenthe. The new FLIRT trains will enhance capacity, connectivity and passenger comfort on Arriva’s regional routes, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient transport network in the Netherlands.

Capacity Growth on Regional Routes

"Since 2012, Arriva has been operating rail services between Zwolle and Emmen, as well as Almelo and Hardenberg. During this time, passenger numbers and customer satisfaction have grown steadily thanks to timetable improvements and the introduction of modern rolling stock," said Annemarie Hoogeveen, regional director at Arriva Nederland. "The five new FLIRT units will support these capacity increases between Zwolle and Emmen and further strengthen regional rail connectivity," Hoogeveen added.

The five four-car FLIRT vehicles will expand Arriva’s existing Stadler fleet, which already includes 165 vehicles in service across the Netherlands. In parallel, the Almelo–Mariënberg line will be electrified, enabling the replacement of current diesel operations with energy-efficient electric trains.

A Longstanding Partnership

Stadler and Arriva share a partnership spanning almost two decades. Their cooperation began in 2006 with the first delivery of GTW trains to the Netherlands. Between 2006 and 2012, Stadler supplied 122 GTW units, followed by 18 WINK vehicles delivered between 2021 and 2022. From 2016 to 2024, Stadler produced 34 FLIRT trains for Arriva’s operations in the Limburg region.

"With this latest contract, Stadler and Arriva reaffirm their shared commitment to providing modern, accessible and environmentally friendly mobility solutions," said Pascal Kuenzler, Sales Director for Benelux at Stadler. "The new FLIRT trains will support our customer’s sustainability goals and enhance the passenger experience across the Vechtdallijnen network. We are proud of the trust placed in us and honored to contribute to the continued development of modern and reliable rail transport in the Netherlands," added Pascal Kuenzler.

FLIRT for Arriva: Technical and Passenger Features

The new FLIRT trains for Arriva have been designed for optimal performance, energy efficiency and passenger comfort. Each four-car unit provides 248 seats, including 12 in first class, and accommodates a total of 457 passengers. Passengers will enjoy spacious interiors and multifunctional areas adaptable to seasonal needs, offering flexibility between bicycle storage and additional seating.

Silence areas will provide a comfortable environment for those wishing to work or relax, while dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and bicycles will ensure full accessibility. The trains will also feature modern PRM-compliant restrooms, power sockets, real-time passenger information displays and clear signage to aid navigation.

The new FLIRT units will carry the RRReis livery, combining shades of purple, blue and green. Inside, refreshed seat upholstery and updated colour schemes will create a bright, welcoming environment designed for both comfort and functionality.

Source: Stadler Press Release