October 30, 2026, Bussnang - RailStock Finland Oy has exercised an option for 21 additional Stadler FLIRT electric trains, known locally in Finland as Sm7. The new vehicles will expand the Stadler-fleet operated in the state-subsidized passenger rail services to a total of 41 units. The trains are particularly energy-efficient and have been specially designed to cope with the harsh climatic conditions in Finland.
The order for 21 additional trains was placed under an option included in the agreement originally signed by Finnish railway operater VR and Stadler in November 2022 and later transferred to RailStock Finland Oy in March 2026 as part of an asset purchase agreement between VR and RailStock. The original contract covered the delivery of 20 trains, with an option for a further 50 units.
RailStock Finland Oy is a Finnish state-owned company responsible for managing, developing and leasing rolling stock used in publicly funded passenger rail transport. RailStock provides the trains to state-funded PSO rail services.
“We are pleased to sign this option agreement with Stadler, marking another important step in securing the future of publicly supported passenger rail services in Finland. Our goal is to enable competition-neutral and sustainable publicly supported passenger rail services in Finland by providing reliable, high-quality rolling stock for use by all operators across the country. New rolling stock investments will ensure the conditions for maintaining and developing publicly subsidised passenger rail services in Finland in the coming decades”, says Joakim Mette, CEO of RailStock Finland Oy.
“We are honoured by RailStock Finland’s decision to sign this contract”, says Ansgar Brockmeyer, EVP Sales & Marketing at Stadler. “This agreement reflects the trust placed in our FLIRT platform and underlines our shared commitment to supporting the long-term development of passenger rail transport in Finland. We look forward to delivering these additional trains and contributing to a reliable and sustainable rail system for future generations.”
Designed for Finnish winters
The newly ordered trains will further expand the fleet of Sm7 trains developed by Stadler to meet the requirements of Finland’s commuter rail network. These four-car, low-floor vehicles have been designed to ensure reliable operation throughout the year, including in challenging climatic conditions.
“Extreme cold, snow and significant temperature fluctuations place high demands on rail vehicles. Our extensive experience in developing and manufacturing trains for the demanding weather conditions enables us to tailor our vehicles and their equipment to local needs. These trains are well prepared to meet the specific requirements of the Finish climate and ensure reliable operations throughout the year”, says Michael Schwarz, Sales Director Nordic Countries at Stadler.
The Sm7 vehicles are equipped with features including larger snow ploughs, floor heating and enhanced thermal insulation. The trains have a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h. Each train offers 340 seats and can accommodate up to 700 passengers in total. New vehicles will be designed and manufactured in compliance with the CRA regulations, which come into force in December 2027.
Advanced technology for sustainable mobility
The new trains support the development of more sustainable public transport in Finland. Their lightweight aluminium construction, combined with state-of-the-art converter technology, helps reduce energy consumption during operation. Other features that contribute to energy efficiency and environmental performance include the use of propane as a refrigerant and oil-free air compressors. The trains are also designed to allow a significant proportion of their materials to be recycled at the end of their service life.
Manufactured in Siedlce, delivered to Finland
The fleet of FLIRT Sm7 trains is manufactured at Stadler’s facility in Siedlce, Poland. The first train arrived at the port of Hanko in May 2025. To date, four units have been delivered to the customer, while a further five are scheduled for acceptance in 2026. The remaining trains are at various stages of production and commissioning.
Completion of the base order is scheduled for the end of 2027. Following fulfilment of the base order and delivery of the 21 trains ordered under the option, Finnish passengers will be served by 2030 a total of 41 modern Stadler FLIRT trains. The option to order a further 29 vehicles remain available till 2036, giving RailStock Finland flexibility to plan the future expansion of its fleet.
Strong market presence of Stadler in Finland and the Nordic region
Stadler has established a strong presence in Finland, having delivered over 100 trains and locomotives to the market. The company also provides maintenance and technical support for its delivered fleet. Across the Nordic region, Stadler Service employs over 620 people, ensuring reliable operations and long-term customer support.
Media contact
Stadler Rail Group
Jürg Grob
Deputy Head of Corporate Communications & Public Relations
Phone: +41 71 626 19 19
E-mail: media@stadlerrail.com
Stadler Polska Sp. z o. o.
Marta Jarosinska
Head of Communications and Marketing
Phone: +48 601 198 003
E-mail: marta.jarosinska@stadlerrail.com
www.stadlerrail.com
Editor's note: Image rights belong to the respective publisher. Image rights: Stadler Rail Schweiz AG
Conclusion of this article: « Follow-up order from Finland: Stadler to deliver 21 additional FLIRT trains »
Source: Stadler Rail Schweiz AG, Press release
Original German article: Folgeauftrag aus Finnland: Stadler liefert 21 weitere FLIRT-Züge
