photo: ZSSK on X (Twitter)/Stadler KISS
Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko (ZSSK) has exercised an option for two additional Stadler KISS electric trains. The investment, exceeding EUR 100 million, is co-financed through the EU Recovery and Resilience Plan and will enter service on the Bratislava–Žilina line in the 2026/2027 timetable.
Swiss rolling stock manufacturer Stadler will supply national operator Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko (ZSSK) with two more high-capacity KISS double-decker electric units. After securing the first two units in April 2025, ZSSK has now signed an option for an additional pair. The new trains are scheduled for deployment under the 2026/2027 timetable on the Bratislava–Žilina mainline.
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The total value of the order may exceed EUR 100 million, with funding primarily sourced from the European Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). "Financing from the Recovery and Resilience Plan is an important tool that brings European resources directly into the daily lives of the public," said Denisa Žiláková, State Secretary at the Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republic.
Stadler Expands Role in Slovak Rail Modernisation
The option for two more trains builds on the long-term partnership between ZSSK and Stadler. KISS units have been operating since 2023 on the Bratislava–Nové Zámky and Bratislava–Trenčín/Púchov routes. "Investment in modern trains confirms the clear strategy of ZSSK and the Slovak Ministry of Transport to transform Slovak railways into a modern transport system," said Zdeněk Majer, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Stadler Praha.
ZSSK has also welcomed the continuation of cooperation with a proven supplier, stressing that eco-friendly KISS units are a symbol of the railway’s future. "We are gradually adding new modern units and locomotives, which makes our fleet one of the youngest in Europe. The new high-capacity electric units will increase passenger comfort and satisfaction while reducing energy consumption and emissions," commented Peter Helexa, CEO of ZSSK.
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Modern, Eco-Friendly Stadler KISS Units
The KISS electric multiple units can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h and offer a capacity of at least 611 seats (582 in first and second class plus 29 folding seats). For improved passenger comfort and orientation, the trains are equipped with an advanced audio-visual system, including clear digital journey information displays. Their low-floor design allows easy boarding and alighting, particularly for passengers with reduced mobility.
Like the previously delivered trains, the new units will be designed by Stadler Praha’s engineering office, which employs more than 250 engineers and designers. Production will take place at Stadler’s Polish plant in Siedlce.
Source: ZSSK Press Release