First FLIRT for Lithuania unveiled in Vilnius
updated on 13th Nov 2025 21:20 posted on 30th Oct 2025 16:05
On 28 October 2025, LTG Link and Stadler have presented a new FLIRT EMU at Vilnius main station, marking a new stage in the history of Lithuanian railways. The new train has been produced in Siedlce under the contract signed in June 2023 for the delivery of 15 units, 9 electric and 6 battery-powered units - for LTG Link, the passenger transport company of the LTG Group.
“These trains are not just an investment in modern and comfortable passenger transport - they represent an important step toward a more sustainable Lithuania. Lower emissions, lower costs, and greater efficiency are improvements that both passengers and the entire transport system will experience very soon,” said Egidijus Lazauskas, CEO of the LTG Group.
The remaining eight Class 950 EMUs are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026. The first BEMU, designated Class 850, is planned for delivery in December 2025. The remaining units will arrive in 2026. All EMUs and BEMUs will be maintained at the Naujoji Vilnia depot, which is being prepared to accommodate the new fleet. The homologation of trains in Lithuania is overseen by LTSA (Lietuvos transporto saugos administracija, Lithuanian Transport Safety Administration).
The first EMU has the end cars 951 001 + 952 001, the second one will have that numbered 951 002 + 952 002 and the final one 951 009 + 952 009. The intermediate cars are designated Classes 953 (car C), 954 (car D) and 955 (car E), thus the EVNs of the intermediate cars in the first EMU are 94 24 0953 001 4 + 94 24 0954 001 3 + 94 24 0955 001 2.
By 2026, 731 km of track in Lithuania will be electrified - about 28 % of the national railway network. On these sections, electric trains running the popular Vilnius - Klaipėda route will be able to reach speeds of up to 160 km/h. Sustainable travel in other directions will be ensured by battery-powered rolling stock, which will use the catenary for part of the route and battery power for the remainder. FLIRT BEMUs will operate on the Kaunas - Šiauliai and Vilnius - Marcinkonys (via Varėna) routes.
The new EMUs will be more spacious - offering around 200 seats - and fully accessible for passengers with disabilities and individual needs. Low-floor access will make boarding easier for elderly passengers, parents with strollers, and families with young children. The interior has no steps, ensuring easy movement throughout the train. For additional comfort, the train is carpeted to reduce noise.
For the first time in several years, a bistro area will return to Lithuanian trains, allowing passengers to purchase hot food and drinks on board. Travel will also become more convenient for cycling enthusiasts: depending on demand and the season, the train will be able to accommodate up to 30 bicycles. During the colder months, most of these spaces will be converted into additional passenger seating, although at least four bicycle spaces will remain available year-round.
Recognizing that many passengers work while traveling, each ergonomic seat will include a power outlet, individual lighting, and a table suitable for laptops, while the seats themselves feature adjustable backrests for added comfort. Once these new units join the existing fleet, the oldest diesel trains operating on the Vilnius - Turmantas route will be gradually phased out and replaced with modern rolling stock.
The first FLIRT was delivered to the Vilnius Intermodal Terminal a few weeks ago. Shortly after arrival, its carriages were placed on bogies and assembled into a complete unit. Static tests are scheduled to begin at the end of October, with test runs for passengers planned for next year. The train will now undergo comprehensive testing on Lithuania’s infrastructure to obtain all necessary certifications. Starting in 2026, the FLIRTs will operate on the Vilnius - Klaipėda, Vilnius - Varėna - Marcinkonys, and Kaunas - Šiauliai routes.
