[NO / Expert] +25 FLIRTs for Norske Tog – bimodal units included [update/edit]

This article was originally published on 24.06.2018 and updated on 12.12.2018. Now we have new information about ‘option 4’ and ‘option 5’ of the project – Initially, we reported the news that two bi-mode units would be included in the project, but there will be 14 in total. Here is an updated overview:

We especially thank Norske Tog for the information and pictures provided.

On 12.12.2018 Norske Tog (NT), the state owned rolling stock company of Norway, and Stadler Rail signed a contract for the delivery of 25 additional FLIRT trains. Norske Tog thus decided to use the last option of the frame contract signed in 2008, bringing the total number of Class BM74/BM75/BM76 multiple units to 150.

In 2008, the Norwegian State Railways (NSB) signed a framework agreement for a total of 150 new FLIRT EMUs and placed a initial order for fifty 5-car units. It was the largest single contract NSB signed for rolling stock at that time. An overview:

  • 2008: initial order for 50 EMUs;
  • Until 2016: 57 more EMUs ordered;
  • 2017: 18 EMUs ordered (‘option 4’) including 2 bi-mode units;
  • 2018: 25 EMUs ordered (‘option 5’) including 12 bi-mode units.

Norske Tog?

Norske Tog (Norwegian Train) is the Norwegian state-owned company established to offer rental of rolling stock for passenger transport operators on the Norwegian railway tracks. The company is owned by the Norwegian Ministry of Transport and Communications. Most NSB (Norges Statsbaner) rolling stock was transferred to Norske Tog in 2016 due to the railway reform which should eventually launch competition in Norway by 2027.  Rolling stock of the Flåmsbana, excluded from competition, stays with NSB. “Berging” (recovery) and emergency rolling stock was transferred to Bane NOR, Norway’s Infrastructure Agency.

Norske Tog BM75 02 is used for Oslo commuter services – Photo: Norske Tog

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