Poland’s Koleje Mazowieckie Orders Final FLIRT Trains

WARSAW, POLAND – Polish regional operator Koleje Mazowieckie has finalized its largest-ever rolling stock investment programme by signing a contract with Stadler Polska for 11 additional FLIRT electric multiple units (EMUs). This order completes a landmark framework agreement for 75 new trains, which will expand the carrier’s fleet to 146 FLIRT units, establishing it as the largest operator of this train type in Poland.

Main Body:

Koleje Mazowieckie (KM) has formally concluded its ambitious fleet modernization initiative with a final executive contract for 11 Stadler FLIRT trains. The signing marks the full implementation of a framework agreement to procure 75 modern EMUs between 2024 and 2025. According to Robert Stępień, CEO and General Director of Koleje Mazowieckie, this is a critical milestone for the company. While the initial purchase of 64 units has already secured EU funding, Stępień confirmed that the operator will apply for additional funding for this final batch of 11 trains. The comprehensive agreement also includes maintenance services, technical training for staff, and essential repair packages, ensuring long-term operational reliability.

The Stadler FLIRT (Fast Light Innovative Regional Train) units are engineered for modern regional transport, boasting a maximum speed of 160 km/h. Their design prioritizes efficiency and passenger comfort, featuring a lightweight aluminium car body that contributes to lower energy consumption. Inside, passengers will benefit from a full suite of modern amenities, including climate control, comprehensive CCTV for security, complimentary Wi-Fi, and real-time passenger information systems. In a significant nod to passenger safety and accessibility, each unit is equipped with an onboard defibrillator and is designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.

This contract deepens a nearly two-decade-long partnership between the two companies, which began with the first FLIRT deliveries in 2006. The scale of the latest agreement underscores Stadler’s significant manufacturing presence in Poland. Radosław Banach, CEO of Stadler Polska, highlighted the deal’s impact on local industry, stating that all vehicles will be built at the Siedlce plant. He noted that this project has directly fueled regional growth, with Stadler Polska creating nearly 400 new jobs this year alone and expanding its engineering team to 100 specialists. This investment ripple effect extends to a network of local Polish partners and suppliers integral to the manufacturing process.

Key Takeaways

• Fleet Modernization Complete: The order for 11 final units completes a 75-train framework, marking the conclusion of Koleje Mazowieckie’s largest-ever rolling stock investment.
• Poland’s Largest FLIRT Fleet: Upon delivery, KM will operate 146 FLIRT trains, solidifying its position as the largest operator of this specific EMU type in the country.
• Major Economic Impact: The production at Stadler’s Siedlce plant boosts the local economy, creating hundreds of jobs and strengthening the domestic rail supply chain.

Editor’s Analysis

This finalization is more than a regional procurement; it’s a powerful indicator of several key trends in the European rail market. Firstly, it demonstrates the success of modular, standardized train platforms like the FLIRT, which allow operators like Koleje Mazowieckie to scale their fleets efficiently while maintaining operational consistency. Secondly, it highlights a strategic shift towards large-scale, long-term fleet renewals aimed at improving energy efficiency, passenger experience, and service reliability across regional networks. Finally, the deal cements Poland’s position as a crucial European hub for rolling stock manufacturing, with Stadler’s Siedlce facility proving its capacity to deliver major international orders and drive significant local economic development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many new FLIRT trains did Koleje Mazowieckie order in total?

Koleje Mazowieckie’s latest contract was for 11 FLIRT EMUs, which was the final part of a larger framework agreement for a total of 75 new trains.

Where are the new trains being manufactured?

All 75 trains are being built at Stadler Polska’s manufacturing plant in Siedlce, Poland, making extensive use of a local supply chain.

What will be the total size of Koleje Mazowieckie’s FLIRT fleet?

Once all deliveries from this framework agreement are completed, Koleje Mazowieckie will operate a total of 146 FLIRT trains, the largest such fleet in Poland.