FLIRT Nordic Express: Stadler and Norske tog set new standards in Norwegian long-distance rail transport

The new trains will be far more than just a means of transport: they offer space to work, sleep, eat and spend time with the family. On Wednesday, the first train was unveiled at InnoTrans in Berlin, the world's largest trade fair for rail and transport technology. With the FLIRT Nordic Express, Stadler and Norske tog are setting new benchmarks in Norwegian long-distance rail travel, where journeys can last up to nine hours.

It was with precisely this vision that Norske tog approached Stadler: not simply to develop a new train, but to create a new travel experience for Norwegian long-distance rail transport.

«The train combines our many years of experience in Norway with innovative technical solutions and a clear focus on passengers' needs,» says Dr Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales and Deputy Group CEO at Stadler.

Flexibility for a variety of operations

A key feature of the new train is its innovative vehicle concept. Whilst long-distance trains in Norway have so far predominantly operated as locomotive-hauled trains, the FLIRT Nordic Express combines the advantages of a modern multiple unit with the flexibility of traditional long-distance trains.

Depending on the route, capacity requirements and seasonal demands, different carriage modules can be flexibly combined. This allows the trains to be adapted to different operational scenarios whilst still being operated as a standardized fleet.

Designed for Nordic conditions

The FLIRT Nordic Express is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from minus 40 to plus 35 degrees Celsius and features numerous protective measures against snow, ice and extreme weather conditions, such as a snow plough and heated steps.

These solutions are based on Stadler's many years of experience in Scandinavia. Around 150 FLIRT trains from Stadler are already in service in Norway. Furthermore, Stadler has extensive operational experience on Norwegian railway lines, including with the EuroDual locomotives used for ore transport by Rana Gruber in the Mo i Rana region on the Nordlandsbanen.

Sleeping carriages, play areas and business zones

Particular attention has been paid to travel comfort. The new fleet offers a variety of travel concepts for day and night services. These include sleeping compartments, comfortable reclining seats for night journeys, business areas, family zones with children's play areas, as well as spacious lounges and dining areas. The design and interior layout were developed in close collaboration with Norske tog. The operator's requirements and the needs of future passengers were directly incorporated into the development process.

«Our aim was to develop a train that people trust and enjoy travelling on. The journey itself should become part of the experience,» says Øystein Risan, CEO Norske tog.

In service from 2028

The FLIRT Nordic Express heralds a new era for Norwegian long-distance rail travel.

The first trains are due to enter service on the route between Oslo and Bergen from 2028. The new fleet will then be gradually introduced on other key long-distance routes across the country.

Group photo f.l.t.r.: Øystein Risan, CEO Norske tog; Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales and Deputy Group CEO at Stadler.