First MÁV-START Citylink In Hungary

In May 2017, MÁV-START signed a contract with Stadler for the supply of eight dual-power tram-trains with an option for four more, this being confirmed in July 2020. In early January 2021, the first one left Stadler Valencia works towards Hungary, arriving on the 8th in Szentes.

The Class 406 Citylink vehicles, which will connect without transhipments the tram networks of Szeged and Hódmezővásárhely, are the first tram-trains in Hungary. Construction of the new line has begun on 4 April 2018, and is now scheduled to be complete in 2021.

The Citylinks are three-car bi-directional vehicles, able to operate in electric mode under 600 V DC overhead on the tram networks in Szeged and Hódmezővásárhely, and in diesel mode on the mainline connecting both cities. The 1,435 mm gauge 100 km/h Citylinks have a Bo'2'2'Bo' axle arrangement and a traction power of 4 x 145 kW. In diesel mode they are powered by two 390 kW diesel power packs.

The vehicle length is 37,200 mm, its width is 2,650 mm and its height 3,800 mm above rail top. There are four double-leaf doors one each side, with automatic sliding steps, boarding heights being 300 mm and 550 mm above rail top. The Class 406 Citylinks have 92 seats and a space for up to 216 standees (4 pers./m²). Wheel diameter when new is 720 mm and when used 640 mm. Min. curve radius negotiable is 22 m.

The start of regular passenger service is expected sometime in 2021.