FLIRT AKKU For The USA

Utah State University (USU), the ASPIRE Engineering Research Center and Stadler signed on 15 February 2023 a contract to develop and test a battery-powered passenger train. Based on the successful FLIRT AKKU concept, Stadler will bring the first BEMU to North America. The aim of the project is to develop, build and test a  two-car FLIRT AKKU. Stadler has already sold over 110 of these vehicles.

In cooperation with ASPIRE, Stadler is now developing a FLIRT AKKU model tailored to the American market. This requires extensive research and development work to adapt the vehicle to the American infrastructure and national regulations. While Stadler is concentrating on the design and production of the train, ASPIRE is working on the development of the trackside charging infrastructure for the vehicle. During subsequent extensive test runs, ASPIRE, USU and Stadler hope to gain important insights for the decarbonisation of American passenger transport through the use of battery-powered trains.  

Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US, said: „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. After a contract for a hydrogen-powered FLIRT for California (San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, SBCTA), we are now excited to bring our battery solution to the United States. 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.“