Stadler Developing FLIRT Akku Model for U.S. Market

In cooperation with the ASPIRE Research Center, Stadler is developing a FLIRT Akku model tailored to the American market.

Stadler announced Feb. 15 that it has signed a contract with Utah State University (USU) and the ASPIRE Engineering Research Center to develop and test a multiple-unit train with battery drive for the U.S. market based on the company’s FLIRT Akku model.

According to Stadler US Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Switzerland-based rail transit vehicle supplier Stadler Rail, the aim of the project is to develop, build and test a FLIRT Akku battery-powered two-car multiple unit. Stadler’s FLIRT Akku model is a single-decker, lightweight multiple-unit train for regional transport that, thanks to its battery drive, allows CO2 emission-free rail transport on non-electrified lines. Stadler has already sold more than 110 FLIRT Akku vehicles, including in Germany where the battery-powered trains have replaced diesel fleets in Schleswig-Holstein, Rhineland-Palatinate and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

In cooperation with ASPIRE, Stadler is developing a FLIRT Akku model tailored to the American market, which the company says “requires extensive research and development work to adapt the vehicle to the American infrastructure and national regulations.”

Stadler is concentrating on the design and production of the train and ASPIRE is working on the development of the trackside charging infrastructure for the vehicle. During subsequent extensive test runs, ASPIRE, USU and Stadler say they hope to “gain important insights for the decarbonization of American passenger transport through the use of battery-powered trains.”

“We are honored to partner with Stadler on this groundbreaking project,” said Dr. Regan Zane, Director of the NSF ASPIRE Engineering Research Center. “Success will bring design and manufacturing jobs to Utah. It will also chart the path to electrified commuter and light rail systems along the Wasatch Front. The battery-electric train solution will improve air quality and reduce operating costs while supporting shared charging infrastructure with trucks, buses and cars. We’re beyond pleased to have such an incredible opportunity to be working with a world class manufacturer here in the state.”

“With little to no electrified routes in the North American public rail transit system, a battery train is a great zero-emission alternative to diesel-powered vehicles,” said Stadler US, Inc. CEO Martin Ritter. “After a contract for a hydrogen-powered FLIRT for California, we are now excited to bring our battery solution to the U.S. In ASPIRE we have found an excellent partner to develop the most efficient and fully integrated system for environmentally friendly mobility. We are proud to be able to work with local talent to design and build this technology here in Utah.”

“The Utah Legislature is committed to developing strong public-private partnerships like this, that result in innovative solutions to critical issues facing our state,” said Mike Schultz, Majority Leader, Utah House of Representatives. “We are thrilled to be partners in this project and look forward to its success.”

Flirt Akku

Stadler’s FLIRT Akku is the battery-operated version of the company’s FLIRT model. The vehicle has an operating range of around 100 kilometers. Having covered 224 kilometers in battery-only mode, the FLIRT Akku, according to Stadler, “holds the world record for the longest journey traveled by a regional train in battery-only mode without additional charging.” In addition to the purely electric and battery-electric versions, Stadler also makes a FLIRT model that runs on hydrogen. Stadler is currently developing the first hydrogen-powered FLIRT for the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA).