VR FLEETCARE AND SJ TO MODERNISE X40 TRAIN FLEET

Finnish rail fleet maintenance company VR FleetCare and Swedish railway operator SJ AB have signed an agreement that includes a comprehensive modernisation of the X40 fleet's 27 electric trains and an update of the passenger information system.

The planning and implementation of the project will begin immediately and the last of the overhauled X40 series cars will be delivered to the customer in 2027. The work will be carried out in Finland at VR FleetCare's Oulu depot’s project centre and at the Pieksämäki workshop.

Modernisation aims to improve the travel experience
The X40, manufactured by Alstom, is SJ's three-car, two-floor electric multiple unit. The trains were commissioned in 2004–2008. The aim is to carry out a comprehensive renovation of the interior and exterior of the rolling stock, including a modification to the layout of the passenger compartment, the replacement of the seats and lighting, and the modernisation of the passenger information system. The trains’ surfaces will also be treated and painted according to the customer's brand.

Investments at the Oulu depot
VR FleetCare's maintenance units already have a good framework for rolling stock projects, but new solutions are needed for the surface treatment of rolling stock and the transfer of foreign rolling stock on the Finnish railway network. Investments will be made in a modern preparation facility for the Oulu depot’s maintenance hall at the earliest opportunity. In addition, the new transfer adapter bogies to be acquired, which will be suitable for the Finnish track gauge, will ease up the transfer of rolling stock to maintenance units.