Avelia Stream Nordic X80 from Alstom in Sweden. Source: Eddie Löthman/jarnvagsnyheter
Sweden: The three-car units have begun carrying passengers in limited service, with driver and staff training underway. Full commercial service is scheduled to start in July. Initially, the trains will operate between Gothenburg and two destinations: Vänersborg and Varberg.
Alstom states that the Avelia Stream Nordic X80 can reach 200 km/h and operate at temperatures between –40°C and +35°C. The interior accommodates 270 seated passengers. Seats are fitted with folding tables, footrests, cup holders, power sockets and USB ports. One of the cars has a low-floor section with multipurpose spaces for bicycles, pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Avelia Stream Nordic X80 from Alstom in Sweden. Source: Hallandstrafiken
Regional operator Västtrafik ordered 80 Avelia Stream Nordic X80 trains in 2018 and 2025. The framework contract for up to 100 units was first signed with Bombardier Transportation and passed to Alstom following its acquisition of the company in 2021. Deliveries were due to start in 2021, but the first train was not ready until 2024. Alstom has attributed the delays to the Covid-19 pandemic and the difficulties of the merger.
Final assembly takes place at Alstom’s plant in Hennigsdorf, Germany. Until 2024 the platform was branded as Zefiro Express. The train’s design won the Red Dot Design Award last year. Sweden’s national operator SJ also ordered 25 high-speed EMUs based on the same platform in 2022.