Stadler/VRR’s Rhine-Ruhr S-Bahn: Capacity Boost for German Rail

Rhine-Ruhr S-Bahn undergoes major capacity expansion! Stadler will extend existing FLIRT units, boosting passenger seating by 64% between 2027 and 2029.

Stadler/VRR’s Rhine-Ruhr S-Bahn: Capacity Boost for German Rail
October 17, 2025 11:54 am
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Introduction

The Rhine-Ruhr Transport Authority (VRR) is expanding the capacity of its Subnetwork 1 S-Bahn lines by extending seven existing three-car Stadler FLIRT units into five-car formations. Stadler, which was awarded the contract earlier this summer, is developing the engineering solution for the project, with work scheduled between 2027 and 2029.

Capacity Expansion Project

The project involves extending seven existing three-car Stadler FLIRT units on Subnetwork 1 of the Rhine-Ruhr S-Bahn. This will be achieved by adding two new intermediate cars to each unit, transforming them into five-car formations. The contract for the conversion was awarded to Stadler earlier this summer. The conversion work is scheduled to take place between 2027 and 2029.

Increased Passenger Capacity

Once the conversion is complete, all trains operating on Subnetwork 1 will consist of five-car FLIRT units. This configuration will offer 296 seats per train, compared to the current 180 seats. This represents a 64% increase in seating capacity.

Statements from Key Personnel

Oliver Wittke, VRR Chief Executive Officer, stated that the extension of the FLIRT vehicles is an important step in meeting growing demands and passenger numbers, creating more seats, accessibility, and flexibility. Daniel Baer, Executive Vice President Division Service at Stadler, expressed the company’s pleasure with the trust placed in them by VRR, emphasizing the project’s contribution to improving services for passengers.

Project Implementation

The project is currently underway, with Stadler’s engineering teams beginning design and preparation work. The FLIRT 3 XL multiple units used on Subnetwork 1 are designed specifically for S-Bahn operations and feature a modular construction that allows for flexible configurations. Subnetwork 1 includes some of the most heavily used S-Bahn lines in North Rhine-Westphalia.

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Conclusion

The Rhine-Ruhr Transport Authority (VRR) is expanding the capacity of its Subnetwork 1 S-Bahn lines by extending seven existing three-car Stadler FLIRT units into five-car formations. This project, with work scheduled between 2027 and 2029, will increase seating capacity and improve passenger comfort. Stadler was awarded the contract for the conversion.

Company Summary

Stadler: Stadler was awarded the contract for the conversion of the FLIRT units on Subnetwork 1.

Rhine-Ruhr Transport Authority (VRR): The Rhine-Ruhr Transport Authority (VRR) is responding to rising passenger numbers on Subnetwork 1 of the Rhine-Ruhr S-Bahn with a targeted capacity expansion.

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