Hungarian Railways orders additional hybrid tram-trains from Stadler

The base contract for the supply of eight vehicles was signed between the companies in 2017 to serve the first tram-train system in Hungary between the cities of Szeged and Hódmezővásárhely. The first eight units are expected to enter commercial service by Autumn 2021, while the optional four units by the summer of 2022.

The objective of the first tram-train project in Hungary is to provide a high-quality public transportation system for passengers commuting every day between the two cities. The base lot of eight vehicles would be able to serve a timetable with a 20-minute vehicle frequency, while with the additional four units this amount can be reduced to only 15 minutes.

The new tram-trains are able to operate in electric mode under 600 V DC overhead on the tram networks in Szeged and Hódmezővásárhely, and in diesel mode on the mainline connecting both cities.

The vehicles feature two low-emissions diesel power packs rated at 390 kW. They are also able to negotiate narrow curves of 22m radius providing the benefit of being used in existing curved streets of city centers. Easy access for different platforms types, without modifying the current height of the platforms, is also ensured by doors located at different heights and the use of different type of sliding ramps.

The fully accessible vehicles, designed and manufactured by Stadler Valencia, are 37.2m-long and 2.65m-wide. They have been designed according to the latest safety standards and have a capacity of 220 persons, 92 seated. The vehicles are low-floor throughout and barrier-free. Spacious interior with a high number of seats and four multi-purpose places for persons of limited mobility such as wheelchair users and parents with prams, full HVAC, CCTV and PIS systems are all features that will optimise the passenger travel experience.