Västra Götaland regional transport authority Västtrafik has exercised a €350m option for Alstom to supply a further 35 Avelia Stream Nordic X80 electric multiple-units, bringing the total ordered under the existing framework contract to 80 units.

The first trainsets from the framework entered service this year, meaning the latest order extends a programme already running on the Swedish network rather than starting a new one. The September 29 announcement did not specify delivery dates for the additional 35 units.

'With these 35 new trains, we are taking another step towards more modern, spacious and comfortable public transport for our passengers', said Bijan Zainali, Chair of the Västtrafik Board. 'The trains will also reduce our energy consumption and replace our older rolling stock.'

The fleet renewal rationale is explicit: the X80s displace older generation trains in Västtrafik's fleet, and the operator expects lower energy consumption per train in service. Zainali's framing ties the order to two measurable outcomes — energy use and fleet age — though Västtrafik has not published projected energy savings figures.

The three-car 200 km/h EMUs seat 270 passengers and carry real-time information systems. Accessibility features include dedicated spaces for wheelchair users and pushchairs with step-free boarding.

Alstom designed the Avelia Stream Nordic platform for harsh Nordic operating conditions. The trains can run through 800 mm of snow and operate at temperatures down to -40°C — specifications that reflect the winterisation requirements of the Swedish regional network where Västtrafik operates.

The order also consolidates Alstom's position as the authority's maintenance partner. Alstom maintains the Västtrafik fleet, covering both the new X80 trains and older generations of rolling stock, giving the manufacturer a service revenue stream alongside the €350m build contract.

The exercise of the option follows the framework structure established when Västtrafik first contracted with Alstom for the X80 programme, under which the authority committed to an initial batch with the right to order additional units at pre-agreed terms. With 80 of the trainsets now on order, the fleet plan replaces legacy rolling stock across the Västra Götaland region's regional services.

The 35 additional EMUs will enter a fleet whose first units have only months of revenue service behind them, and their delivery schedule will determine how quickly Västtrafik can complete the withdrawal of its older trains.