VR FleetCare modernises SJ's X40 electric trains in Oulu

The contract is multiannual, and the first train returned from Oulu to Sweden in late 2024 and started passenger service in early 2025. The last modernised train is scheduled to return to passenger service in early 2028. FleetCare will modernise a total of 27 X40 trains for SJ at the Oulu project centre.

New paint shop to ensure high quality
During the modernisation, the trains will undergo a major refurbishment, with a new commercial look, improved accessibility, and a more comfortable interior with new surface and layout solutions.




VR FleetCare has invested nearly 10 million euros in a new paint shop and facility improvements at its Oulu project centre, as part of new fleet projects. SJ's X40 trains are the first to undergo surface treatment in Oulu, where they will be thoroughly inspected, possible corrosion damage will be repaired, and the surfaces will be patched and smoothed before being given a new, grey and metallic topcoat with black and green details.

The new look is carried through to the interior in the form of refined details. All seat frames are painted, seat cushions are replaced and upholstered, tables are replaced, and some walls are foiled to make the trains more comfortable.

Investing in travel comfort
Improving travel comfort is the main objective of modernisation. So, everything that is done to the train is aimed at making the journey more comfortable.

When the trains arrive in Oulu, the wagons are first thoroughly cleaned. All interior surfaces are cleaned, floors are sanded and waxed, and the air conditioning is fumigated and disinfected. This ensures a clean environment and fresh air quality for passengers.

The fluorescent lighting on the train will be replaced by LED lighting. The new lighting solution is not only more energy efficient, but it also improves visibility and the overall atmosphere on board. The cab roof lights will also be replaced.




At the customer's request, the layout of the first and second class of X40 coaches will be modified. These changes have been made with the passengers and train crew in mind. For example, in first class, the seats facing each other are removed and replaced by seats side by side. This solution provides more legroom in each seat. The new layout also allows for smoother cleaning.

On the Linköping-Stockholm-Uppsala Gävle route, commuters are the largest group of passengers on the X40 trains, so special attention has been paid to working conditions on board. In the first class, space dividers have been added to separate the workstations from the rest of the cabin and to provide a more relaxed working environment. The second class is also more comfortable thanks to larger desks and relocated sockets. USB-A and USB-C charging facilities have been added to the sockets, improving the travelling experience over the life of the train.




The train's toilets will get a facelift as part of the modernisation: the toilets will be fitted with a new mirror, soap dispenser and handles, among other things. The washbasin will be refurbished, and the wall will be foiled.




Achievable X40
Accessibility has been one of the main factors guiding the design. Good accessibility considers the different types of passengers and enables a more comfortable journey for all.

Accessibility on the X40 fleet has been improved by renewing all signage and markings, both indoors and outdoors. Seat numbering has been implemented on the armrests of the seats and on the edge of the luggage racks.




The Passenger Information System (PIS) will also be updated. The PIS provides passengers with information about their journey, such as timetable, stops and services on board. During the modernisation, the old PIS displays will be removed and replaced by new displays. The number of displays will be increased by also installing displays in the front of the train and all displays will be placed in more accessible locations.

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