LTG Link & Stadler: Rail Upgrade in Lithuania-Electric Trains 2026

Introduction

LTG Link and Stadler unveiled the first FLIRT electric train at Vilnius railway station, marking a significant step in replacing the operator’s oldest diesel trains. The new trains, part of a 15-train order, will begin service on the Vilnius–Klaipėda, Vilnius–Varėna–Marcinkonys, and Kaunas–Šiauliai routes starting in 2026.

Train Unveiling and Contract Details

Lithuanian passenger transport company LTG Link and Swiss manufacturer Stadler presented a FLIRT electric train at Vilnius railway station. This train is the first in a series manufactured under a contract signed in June 2023 between LTG Link, part of the LTG Group, and Stadler. The agreement includes 15 trains, comprising nine electric and six battery-powered units. The electric train arrived at the Vilnius Intermodal Terminal several weeks prior. Following its arrival, the coaches were mounted on bogies and assembled into a complete train set. Static testing is scheduled to commence by late October, with passenger test runs planned for the following year.

Testing and Route Deployment

The train will undergo comprehensive testing across Lithuania’s rail network to obtain all necessary certifications. LTG Link plans to introduce these new trains on the Vilnius–Klaipėda, Vilnius–Varėna–Marcinkonys, and Kaunas–Šiauliai routes from 2026 onward. These new rail vehicles will replace LTG Link’s oldest diesel trains currently running on the Vilnius–Turmantas route.

Operational and Sustainability Goals

The Stadler trains are designed to augment LTG Link’s fleet. According to the company, these vehicles will contribute to reduced operational costs, lower reliance on fossil fuels, and support Lithuania’s national transport sustainability objectives. The new electric train was manufactured at Stadler’s plant in Siedlce, Poland. It has been built to operate on electrified lines in Lithuania. By 2026, Lithuania aims to electrify 731 km of track, or nearly 28% of its total rail network. The electric trains running on some routes, such as Vilnius to Klaipėda, will operate at speeds up to 160 km/h on these lines. Further, battery-powered units will be used for routes including Kaunas–Šiauliai and Vilnius–Marcinkonys via Varėna. On these services, trains will run partly using overhead wires and partly on battery power.

Passenger Amenities and Features

Each new electric train features approximately 200 seats and is designed for step-free boarding. The trains provide accommodations for passengers using wheelchairs or those needing transfer seats with tables. Spaces for accompanying persons are also available. The interior layout offers low-floor access throughout, eliminating interior steps for passengers moving between coaches. Carpeting is used inside the train to reduce noise levels. Additionally, the new train will have capacity for up to 30 bicycles. During colder seasons, most of the areas designated for bikes will be used as additional passenger seating. However, at least four bicycle spaces will be maintained year-round. Each seat includes a power outlet, personal reading light, and a table suitable for a laptop. Seats have adjustable backrests.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the first Stadler FLIRT electric train marks the beginning of LTG Link’s initiative to modernize its fleet and enhance passenger services, with the new trains scheduled to enter service on multiple routes starting in 2026. The new trains will be replacing the current diesel trains.

LTG Link

LTG Link is a Lithuanian passenger transport company and part of the LTG Group.

Stadler

Stadler is a Swiss manufacturer.