First FLIRT train from Stadler for Lithuania unveiled in Vilnius

Group photo: f.l.t.r: Saulius Luščikas, Member of the Parliament at Lithuania, Egidijus Lazauskas, CEO LTG Group, Arkadiusz Świerkot, Member of the Board Stadler Polska, Magdalena Chibowska, Senior project manager for LTG Link, Juras Taminskas, Minister of Transport at Lithuania, Radosław Banach, president of the Board Stadler Polska, Tomas Daukantas, Cancellor of the Ministry of Transport at Lithuania, Roderikas Žiobakas, Vice-Minister of Transport at Lithuania.

LTG Link and Stadler have presented a new FLIRT electric train at Vilnius railway station, marking a new stage in the history of Lithuanian railways – a greener, quieter, and more comfortable way to travel.

The new train has been produced under the contract signed in June 2023 for the delivery of  15 vehicles, 9 electric and 6 battery-powered units – for LTG Link, the passenger transport company of the LTG Group.

New chapter of the history of Lithuania’s railways

Transport and Communications Minister Juras Taminskas, who attended the unveiling ceremony, emphasized that this new electric train marks a new stage in the history of Lithuania’s railways.

“With the renewal of Lithuania’s train fleet, we are confidently stepping into a new era of passenger rail transport. I am delighted that soon passengers across the country – from cities to regions – will be travelling on modern Swiss electric trains. Ultimately, our focus is on creating a rail system that responds to every passenger’s needs and ensures comfort, inclusivity, and quality for all,” said Juras Taminskas, Minister of Transport and Communications of Lithuania.

The new trains from Stadler will not only significantly expand the existing fleet but also ensure cleaner and more efficient rail transport by optimizing operating costs, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and contributing to the sustainability of the national transport system.

“These trains are not just an investment in modern and comfortable passenger transport — they represent an important step toward a more sustainable Lithuania. Lower emissions, lower costs, and greater efficiency are improvements that both passengers and the entire transport system will experience very soon,” said Egidijus Lazauskas, CEO of the LTG Group.

The new electric train, manufactured at Stadler Polska plant in Siedlce, is designed to operate on electrified railway lines. By 2026, 731 kilometers of track in Lithuania will be electrified — about 28 percent of the national railway network. On these sections, electric trains running the popular Vilnius–Klaipėda route will be able to reach speeds of up to 160 km/h. Sustainable travel in other directions will be ensured by battery-powered rolling stock, which will use the contact network for part of the route and battery power for the remainder. Battery-powered trains will operate on the Kaunas–Šiauliai and Vilnius–Marcinkonys (via Varėna) routes.

A comfortable journey for all passengers

Radosław Banach, CEO of Stadler Polska, noted: “The train presented today is part of the well known and widely acclaimed FLIRT family, with over 3,000 units sold worldwide. The LTG Link version was developed with functionality and passenger comfort in mind, specifically tailored to the needs of Lithuanian travelers. We are confident that passengers in Lithuania will appreciate its comfort, reliability, and quality.”

The new electric trains will be more spacious — offering around 200 seats — and fully accessible for passengers with disabilities and individual needs. The seating layout allows passengers to travel comfortably in their wheelchairs or transfer to adjacent seats next to fixed tables, with space provided for accompanying persons. The passenger compartment layout was developed in consultation with organizations representing people with mobility impairments during the design phase.

Low-floor access will make boarding easier for elderly passengers, parents with strollers, and families with young children. The interior has no steps, ensuring easy movement throughout the rain. For additional comfort, the train is carpeted to reduce noise.

“We will be traveling on these trains for decades to come, so we paid great attention to comfort and ergonomics. By adding new trains to our fleet, we are offering passengers a new level of travel culture and comfort — and we hope that even more residents and visitors will choose rail travel,” said K. Meidė, CEO of LTG Link.

Smart features for a modern travel experience

For the first time in several years, a bistro area will return to Lithuanian trains, allowing passengers to purchase hot food and drinks on board.

Travel will also become more convenient for cycling enthusiasts: depending on demand and the season, the train will be able to accommodate up to 30 bicycles. During the colder months, most of these spaces will be converted into additional passenger seating, although at least four bicycle spaces will remain available year-round.

Recognizing that many passengers work while traveling, each ergonomic seat will include a power outlet, individual lighting, and a table suitable for laptops, while the seats themselves feature adjustable backrests for added comfort.

Once these new units join the existing fleet, the oldest diesel trains operating on the Vilnius Turmantas route will be gradually phased out and replaced with modern rolling stock.

The new electric train was delivered to the Vilnius Intermodal Terminal a few weeks ago. Shortly after arrival, its carriages were placed on bogies and assembled into a complete unit. Static tests are scheduled to begin at the end of October, with test rides for passengers planned for next year.The train will now undergo comprehensive testing on Lithuania’s railway infrastructure to obtain all necessary certifications.

Starting in 2026, the new trains will operate on the Vilnius–Klaipėda, Vilnius–Varėna–Marcinkonys, and Kaunas–Šiauliai routes.