Hessische Landesbahn GmbH (HLB) has acquired four 3-unit electric low-floored FLIRTs from Stadler Pankow GmbH, significantly expanding its existing vehicle fleet with this order worth around €15 million.
Nine FLIRTs have already been in use by HLB on the Frankfurt–Giessen–Siegen and Giessen–Marburg routes since 2010.
“Like our passengers, we are extremely pleased with the FLIRTs in use in the Main–Lahn–Sieg network,” explains HLB Managing Director Veit Salzmann.
“Easy access for passengers is particularly important to us.”
Three 3-unit and six 5-unit electric FLIRTs (Fast Light Innovative Regional Trains) are currently in use in Hessen, and the newly ordered four 3-unit trains will travel between Kassel and Treysa from December 2014.
“We are delighted to be producing more regional trains for Hessische Landesbahn,” comments Michael Daum, Director of Stadler Pankow GmbH.
“With accessible mobility becoming increasingly important, the new FLIRTs will provide not only passenger accessibility and a large, easily accessible toilet but also a bridge plate at every door.”
The electric trains offer >90 per cent low-floor space, plus enough space to transport two wheelchairs and 12 bicycles, and meet technical EU standards of interoperability concerning persons with reduced mobility, known as TSI PRM.
The needs of these individuals are taken into account particularly in seating and door areas, passenger information, lighting and toilet facilities.
FLIRT regional trains provide seating for 180 passengers and standing space for up to 209 passengers.
They reach a maximum speed of 160 km/h and have low energy consumption.
FLIRTs from Stadler are also a success internationally, and are in operation in countries such as Norway, Finland and Switzerland.
