ZSSK orders two more Stadler KISS double-deck trains
Additional units to enter service on the Bratislava–Žilina line in 2026/2027, financed mainly through EU Recovery and Resilience Plan.
stadlerrail.com
Slovak Railways (ZSSK) has exercised an option under the contract from April 2025 and ordered two more high-capacity KISS electric trains from Stadler. New trains are expected to be put into service during the 2026/2027 timetable on the Bratislava – Žilina main line. They will be financed primarily from European sources through the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). ZSSK ordered the first two double-decker trains in April 2025. The total value of the project for all four units amounts around 100 million euros.
In the public procurement process for expanding its fleet, Slovak State Railways (ZSSK) has selected its proven supplier Stadler. Its KISS units are already successfully operating on the Bratislava – Nové Zámky and Bratislava – Trenčín/Púchov lines. They have been maintaining high reliability and passenger satisfaction on these lines for more than a year.
"I am delighted that the Stadler KISS modern electric unit project has been successfully expanded with an option – this is clear proof that the modernization of passenger rail transport is an integral part of our vision of dynamic, environmentally friendly, and integrated mobility that is ready for future challenges. Funding from the Recovery and Resilience Plan is an important tool that brings European resources directly into the daily lives of the public," says Denisa Žiláková, State Secretary of the Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republik.
Modernization and sustainability project
The electric double-decker units will be equipped with modern technologies that increase travel comfort and operational efficiency. Their capacity will be at least 611 seats (582 first and second class seats + 29 folding seats), with a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h. Another advantage is the units' significant energy efficiency. The low floor design will ensure easy boarding and alighting for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility.
Modern information systems, such as digital panels and audio announcements, will improve orientation and comfort during the journey, contributing to greater passenger satisfaction. This project reflects the need not only for technological innovation, but also for strengthening rail transport as an environmentally friendly solution for the future.
Supporting sustainability and electromobility
"The renewal of the vehicle fleet is one of the main pillars of our strategy, and the expansion of the project with additional Stadler KISS units is a significant milestone. We are already gradually adding new modern units and locomotives, making our fleet one of the youngest in Europe. The new high-capacity electric units will increase passenger comfort and satisfaction while reducing energy consumption and emissions. These modern trains are a symbol of the ecological and sustainable rail transport of the future," said Peter Helexa, CEO of ZSSK.
Like the units previously delivered to ZSSK, these vehicles will also be designed at Stadler Praha, Stadler's design office, which currently employs more than 250 engineers and designers. Production will take place at the Stadler Polska plant in Siedlce.
"The investment in modern trains confirms the clear strategy of ZSSK and the Slovak Ministry of Transport to transform the Slovak railway into a modern transport system. We are delighted that the new units for Slovakia's national carrier are being designed and the project is managed at StadlerPraha,” said Zdeněk Majer, Chairman of the Supervisory Board Stadler Praha, commenting on the exercise of the option.
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