Stadler and WESTbahn have announced the signing of a contract for the delivery of three SMILE high-speed trains. Set to operate on the Vienna - Graz - Klagenfurt - Villach route from March 2026, these highly comfortable, tried-and-tested trains will significantly enhance the passenger experience. They will be built in Bussnang, Switzerland.
The SMILE will be the first high-speed train from Stadler in Austria and is able to reach speeds of up to 250 km/h. These three new trains set to run on the Vienna - Graz - Klagenfurt - Villach route represent the expansion of the WESTbahn network, demonstrating the important role that Stadler is playing to improve rail travel in the country.
The trains offer the following to enhance passenger comfort:
- Low-floor and barrier-free
- Light, airy, open design
- Air-conditioned pressure-resistant passenger compartments and driver' cab
- Accessible toilet in each carriage
- Step-free access
- Dedicated areas for bicycles
- Comfortable adjustable seats available in all classes
- Free WiFi
- USB ports and plug sockets at every seat
The order of 11-car high-speed train sees WESTbahn modernising its fleet and setting a new standard for sustainable rail travel. Able to travel at much higher speeds than previous trains operating in Austria, the SMILE trains are designed for cross-border rail routes.
The three SMILE trains will be integrated into WESTbahn's regular passenger service from March 2026, less than two years after the contract is signed, and will expand the existing KISS double-decker service. Commissioning normally takes four to five years. "We are delighted to have an innovative and forward-looking partner in WESTbahn, and together, be able to deploy state-of-the-art high-speed trains within a very short space of time. The SMILE trains feature the most innovative technologies, high energy efficiency and maximum passenger comfort," says Christian Diewald, Managing Director of Stadler Austria.
Image credit: Stadler
