NEVER CHANGE A WINNING TEAM – TSA gets another order for Stadler Rail vehicles

1,144 electric motors from Traktionssysteme Austria for Stadler Rail’s FLIRT EVO vehicles

Over 20 years together on track
At Traktionssysteme Austria (TSA), we take pride in powering steel giants like high-speed trains, locomotives, and trams. Our electric motors breathe life into rail and road transport vehicles, ensuring they can effortlessly transport millions of people and goods worldwide every day.

With the gradual delivery of 1,144 TSA electric motors for the new FLIRT EVO vehicles, another milestone in the push for a zero-emission future has been achieved. Commissioned by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), in partnership with Thurbo and RegionAlps, the 286 ordered trains will replace aging vehicles that have reached the end of their service life. These new trains will operate in both regional and commuter services, primarily in Zurich, Thurgau, and the Alpine regions, providing passengers with a reliable and comfortable travel experience.

In May 2022, Stadler Rail was awarded the contract to deliver FLIRT EVO vehicles, with a total order volume of around CHF 2 billion. TSA was commissioned in September 2022 to supply the motors. The first vehicle is currently under construction and undergoing static testing. Full operations are expected in the near future, with the first trains entering service by 2026, and the last vehicle from the initial order scheduled for delivery in 2034. An additional option for 224 more vehicles is also available.

Proven technology driving evolution
While the “EVO” in FLIRT EVO stands for evolution, it is not always about entirely new technology. TSA’s electric motors, already proven in numerous vehicles around the world, are being used in this new model. Each motor delivers 600 kW of power, giving the FLIRT EVO trains excellent acceleration and operational efficiency. These high-performance motors ensure that the vehicles meet the highest standards in rail transport.

TSA’s motors aren’t just used in FLIRT EVO trains but are also found in various other FLIRT and KISS vehicles and their variants globally. These motors have contributed to the improvement of public transportation systems in countries like Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands.

‘The biggest challenge in this project was integrating proven technologies into an adapted vehicle design to meet future demands. The specific requirements of SBB, Thurbo, and RegionAlps were carefully considered to ensure the vehicles are perfectly suited to their operating regions. Additionally, the motors had to comply with strict standards for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability to meet the high expectations of the Swiss railway industry,’ said Johannes Mensdorff-Pouilly, Head of Sales – RAIL.ROAD.SERVICE.

SBB’s decision to forgo a completely new vehicle development and rely on proven technologies underscores their confidence in the quality and reliability of existing systems. This approach ensures that the vehicles will meet future requirements without costly and complex new developments.

FLIRT EVO from Stadler Rail: The vehicle of the future
The FLIRT EVO trains are a customized evolution of the well-established FLIRT design. Specifically designed to meet the demands of the coming decades, the FLIRT EVO’s design builds on proven components from previous models, enhanced with innovative technologies to maximize efficiency and reliability. These trains, built for regional and suburban service, will come in two configurations: the four-car version accommodates up to 370 passengers with 146 seats across 73.5 meters, while the three-car version offers 134 seats for a total of 256 passengers over 57.8 meters. Compared to older FLIRT models, the EVO variant provides more storage space for bicycles, strollers, and large luggage. Special attention has been given to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, with two wheelchair spaces and a fully accessible toilet per train. The trains are also equipped with continuous mobile and data reception and power outlets in all compartments, catering to business travelers and younger passengers.

Close collaboration with end customers such as SBB, Thurbo, and RegionAlps has been key to the project’s success. TSA and Stadler Rail continue to work closely together to ensure the highest standards of service and exceed customer expectations.