NS-Stadler: New FLIRT Trains Boost Dutch Rail Capacity & Comfort

NS and Stadler finalize agreement for 36 new FLIRT trains, boosting capacity and enhancing passenger experience across the Dutch railway network by 2030.

NS-Stadler: New FLIRT Trains Boost Dutch Rail Capacity & Comfort
November 20, 2025 11:54 am
A+
A-

Introduction

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and Stadler have finalized a framework agreement for 36 new FLIRT trains, which are slated to begin service in 2030. The trains will be manufactured at Stadler’s facility in Siedlce, Poland, and will support NS’s plans to increase capacity and improve passenger comfort across its Dutch network.

Main Content

Agreement Details

The agreement between Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and Stadler encompasses 18 four-car and 18 six-car FLIRT units. These new trains are intended to accommodate the growing passenger numbers on regional and commuter routes.

Operational Benefits

The new FLIRT units are designed to be adaptable for both local and intercity operations. The trains will feature spacious and accessible interiors, including designated areas for luggage, bicycles, and pushchairs, as well as seating for passengers with reduced mobility. Real-time passenger information and clear signage will be incorporated to enhance the passenger experience.

Technical Specifications

The trains will feature an automatically adjusting lighting system that adapts brightness and color temperature based on external conditions, time of day, and season. Stadler is engineering the fleet at its Prague site, with full production occurring in Siedlce, Poland.

Statements from Key Personnel

Wouter Koolmees, CEO of NS, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing collaboration with Stadler and emphasized the importance of reliable and modern trains to meet passenger needs. Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales and Deputy Group CEO at Stadler, highlighted the FLIRT train’s modular and versatile design and thanked NS for their trust.

Last June 2025, we published an article about Renfe’s cutting-edge Aranjuez maintenance hub. Click here to read – Future of Rail: Renfe’s Railway Technology Hub, Aranjuez: Essential Guide

Conclusion

The framework agreement between Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and Stadler includes 36 new FLIRT trains, scheduled to enter service in 2030. These trains will be manufactured in Siedlce, Poland and are designed to improve capacity and passenger experience on the Dutch network.

Company Summary

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS): The principal passenger railway operator in the Netherlands.

Stadler: A manufacturer of railway rolling stock, based in Switzerland.

Technology

FLIRT: A type of multiple-unit train manufactured by Stadler.