Stadler KISS Trains: Enhancing Stockholm-Mälaren Rail Capacity

Stadler to Deliver 13 Additional KISS Double-Decker Trains to AB Transitio for Stockholm-Mälaren Region

The Swedish rail vehicle leasing company AB Transitio has placed an order with Stadler for 13 additional KISS double-decker multiple-unit trains, bolstering its fleet for regional transport in the Stockholm-Mälaren area. This significant procurement, announced on August 5, 2025, follows an option exercised under a 2016 contract. These new four-car trains are specifically engineered to withstand the demanding Nordic weather conditions, promising enhanced reliability and passenger comfort. The project, with deliveries scheduled to begin in spring 2028, aims to expand the existing capacity of the Mälardalstrafik fleet. This article will delve into the specifics of this order, examining the technical innovations, strategic advantages, and implications for regional rail transport in Sweden.

Expanding the Fleet: Addressing Passenger Growth

The primary driver behind this order is the anticipated increase in passenger numbers within the Stockholm-Mälaren region. The new KISS (KISS stands for “Komfortabler Innovativer Spurtstarker Stadt Schnellzug” – Comfortable, Innovative, Fast City Train) trains will be integrated into the existing fleet of 53 Stadler trains, operated by Mälardalstrafik, the regional railway operator. Designed to accommodate a greater volume of travelers, the trains offer a capacity of 357 seats per unit. The configuration of the train includes adjustable seating, individual reading lights, power sockets, work tables, Wi-Fi connectivity, and mobile phone boosters to enhance the overall passenger experience, highlighting Transitio’s commitment to modernizing its rolling stock and ensuring a comfortable journey for its passengers.

Engineering for the Nordic Climate

A key aspect of this order is the focus on robust design, tailored to endure the severe weather conditions typical of the Nordic region. The trains are specifically engineered to operate reliably in extreme cold and heavy snowfall. This is achieved through several key features: closed engine rooms to protect critical components, double-walled carriage gangways for enhanced insulation, snow-clearing equipment, and underfloor heating systems. These measures are intended to minimize disruptions caused by inclement weather, guaranteeing the continuity of rail services throughout the year. The trains’ ability to operate efficiently in adverse conditions is essential to maintaining the reliability of the regional rail network and ensuring passenger satisfaction.

Technical Specifications and Design Features

The new trains, manufactured at Stadler’s St. Margrethen, Switzerland, facility, are designed for speeds of up to 200 km/h. The four-car configuration utilizes a lightweight aluminum construction for the carriage bodies. This design choice is expected to contribute to reduced energy consumption, a crucial element in achieving sustainability goals within the railway sector. The trains’ design leverages the larger loading gauge typical in Nordic countries, thereby enabling increased height and width for a more spacious passenger layout. Further enhancing the passenger experience, the trains are designed with a Nordic aesthetic, incorporating modern design elements and spacious interiors. The combination of advanced engineering and aesthetic considerations underscores Stadler’s commitment to providing both functionality and comfort.

Strategic Advantages and Synergies

This order offers several strategic advantages for AB Transitio. By expanding its fleet with standardized vehicles, the leasing company aims to strengthen the operational robustness of the Mälardalstrafik network. This standardization also leads to increased synergies within Transitio’s existing rolling stock, simplifying maintenance, and streamlining operational procedures. The decision to continue using Stadler’s KISS platform underscores a successful prior collaboration, showcasing the mutual benefits of a sustained partnership. The procurement aligns with broader regional transport strategies to encourage public transport use and decrease reliance on private vehicles.

Conclusion

The acquisition of 13 additional KISS double-decker trains by AB Transitio marks a significant investment in Sweden’s regional rail infrastructure. This order not only expands capacity but also incorporates features designed to ensure reliability and comfort in the demanding Nordic climate. The integration of these trains into the Mälardalstrafik fleet will likely result in better service, as well as synergies in operations. From an industry perspective, the deal highlights the growing demand for modern, high-capacity rolling stock capable of withstanding harsh weather environments. Stadler’s commitment to innovation and long-term partnerships with railway operators solidifies its position as a key player in the European rail market. The trend towards increased use of public transportation in the face of sustainability pressures makes this investment of specific relevance. The future of regional rail transport in the Stockholm-Mälaren region looks promising, with a focus on capacity, comfort, and dependability.

Company Summary: Stadler

Stadler is a leading international manufacturer of railway rolling stock, with a comprehensive portfolio that encompasses high-speed trains, regional and commuter trains, light rail vehicles, and locomotives. The company is renowned for its innovative engineering, focus on passenger comfort, and commitment to sustainability. Stadler’s extensive experience in designing and building vehicles for diverse operating environments, including demanding climatic conditions, positions it as a preferred partner for railway operators worldwide. Their global presence, combined with a commitment to tailored solutions, ensures that Stadler remains a key supplier to the global rail industry.