Stadler FLIRTs hit 300 million km for MÁV, saving €250 million in energy and cutting 2 million tonnes of CO₂ while only a third through their lifespan

Stadler FLIRTs hit 300 million km for MÁV, saving €250 million in energy and cutting 2 million tonnes of CO₂ while only a third through their lifespan

(IN BRIEF) MÁV’s 123 Stadler FLIRT trains have clocked over 300 million kilometres since entering service in 2007, yet they have only used about a third of their planned lifespan. Their efficient electric traction has already saved roughly €250 million in electricity—around one third of the fleet’s purchase value—and reduced CO₂ emissions by about 2 million tonnes. Each unit averages at least 200,000 kilometres annually, contributing to Stadler vehicles (including KISS double-deckers and tram-trains) providing around one third of MÁV’s total mileage and carrying an estimated every second passenger in Hungary. With a 96% availability rate supported by local full-service maintenance, the FLIRTs have become the backbone of sustainable rail transport. MÁV anticipates that by end of life, energy savings alone could match the initial outlay, with additional benefits from lower maintenance costs underscoring the value of modern rolling stock investments. Chairman Róbert Homolya emphasized both the operational performance and environmental gains achieved.

(PRESS RELEASE) BUDAPEST, 22-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Stadler’s fleet of 123 FLIRT multiple units operated by MÁV has surpassed the 300‑million‑kilometre mark, even though the trains have completed only around one third of their planned service life. Thanks to highly efficient electric traction, the fleet has already saved Hungary’s state railway roughly one third of its original purchase cost—about €250 million—in traction electricity alone. Entering service in 2007, the FLIRTs have set new benchmarks for domestic rail travel, helped boost passenger numbers, and cut transport-related CO₂ emissions by an estimated 2 million tonnes to date.

The savings do not end with energy. Modern rolling stock also lowers maintenance expenditure. Given the current pace—each train covers at least 200,000 kilometres annually—Stadler’s units have become the “workhorses” of MÁV’s roster. Together with the double-deck KISS trains and tram-trains, Stadler-built vehicles account for roughly one third of MÁV’s total mileage. That translates to an estimated every second passenger in Hungary riding on a Stadler train.

“We are proud of this milestone—not only because our well-known FLIRT trains achieve an outstanding 96% availability rate thanks to precise maintenance performed here in Hungary, but also because we provide the backbone of sustainable rail transport, offering passengers a comfortable and environmentally friendly travel experience,” said Róbert Homolya, Chairman of Stadler Trains Hungary.

Looking ahead, the operator expects that by the end of the fleet’s life cycle, the savings from reduced energy consumption alone could fully offset the initial purchase price. When combined with lower upkeep costs, the case for upgrading rolling stock is clear: modern trains pay for themselves while delivering cleaner, more reliable mobility.

About Stadler

Stadler has been building trains for over 80 years. The provider of mobility solutions in rail vehicle construction, service and signalling has its headquarters in Bussnang in eastern Switzerland. It has a workforce of around 14,500 based in various production and engineering locations as well as more than 80 service locations. The company is conscious of its social responsibility for sustainable mobility and therefore stands for innovative, sustainable and durable quality products. The product range in the field of mainline railways and city transport includes highspeed trains, intercity trains, regional and suburban trains, metros, tramways and trams. Stadler also manufactures main-line locomotives, shunting locomotives and passenger carriages. It is the world’s leading manufacturer in the rack-and-pinion rail vehicle industry.

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Media Contact:

Stadler Trains Magyarország Zrt.

Dorka Bohner
PR and Marketing Expert
Tel: +36 30 579 87 71
E-mail: dorka.bohner@stadlerrail.com

http://www.stadlerrail.com/

SOURCE: Stadler