VR FleetCare bogie transfer solution is now enabling Swedish trains to be transferred from Sweden to Finland by rail, despite the Sweden–Finland gauge difference between standard gauge and Finland’s 1,524 mm broad gauge network, as outlined by VR Group.
VR FleetCare bogie transfer solution for Sweden–Finland moves
This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
On January 9, 2026, the first SJ X40 electric train reached Oulu after crossing the Haaparanta–Tornio border. The movement used bogie transfer devices developed by VR FleetCare and adapted to the Finnish gauge, allowing the train to continue on the Finnish network without relying on oversized transport by road, as reported by Railway Pro.
It was the first time in a long time that a passenger train had been transported by rail to Finland from another country, although this transfer took place without passengers on board. Until now, the gauge break meant such transfers were carried out almost exclusively by road, with bulky moves that added complexity and emissions.
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VR FleetCare bogie transfer solution for gauge change logistics
VR FleetCare says the new approach makes it possible to transfer European standard gauge trains to Finland in full for maintenance or modernization. That means the train can be routed by rail to the VR FleetCare center in Oulu, supporting logistics and reducing environmental impact.
SJ X40 modernization at the VR FleetCare center in Oulu
The transfer bogies are being used as part of a modernization project for SJ’s fleet, covering 27 X40 double-decker electric multiple units. The units will be reconditioned at the VR FleetCare center in Oulu, a program intended to extend their service life by 15–20 years. The last modernized trains are expected to return to service in early 2028, as previously covered by Railway Supply.
Peter Guldbrand, sales and project management manager at VR FleetCare, said the difference in gauge led the company to develop a new bogie type designed specifically for moving foreign rolling stock to Finland. In this setup, SJ trains are transferred to Tornio on these bogies, which are compatible with the Finnish network, and then travel onward to Oulu entirely by rail.
Environmental and operational benefits of rail-based transfer
For SJ, shifting from road to rail brings logistical and environmental benefits. Eliminating bulky road transport reduces emissions, and the trains no longer need to be dismantled and reassembled outside workshops, reducing the risk of later technical problems.
VR FleetCare has invested nearly EUR 10 million in developing the project center in Oulu, including a new paint shop and upgraded facilities. Over the long term, the company expects the solution will also facilitate the transfer of rolling stock from other Nordic countries, strengthening Finland’s position as a regional hub for train maintenance.
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