In a strategic move to strengthen its domestic long-distance services, VR has taken the decisive step of acquiring four Allegro trains, known as Sm6 units. This acquisition is the result of VR's repayment of joint venture loans and marks a significant shift in the future of Finnish rail travel.
The Allegro trains, previously part of a joint venture between VR and Russian Railways, became VR's property after Russian Railways repeatedly failed to meet its financial obligations. VR's action to repay the loans and secure the trains is a crucial step in averting the threat of bankruptcy facing the joint venture.
"The number of passengers on our long-distance routes is increasing, and new rolling stock is needed. The Sm6 trains are high-quality, modern trains that will support the growth of domestic traffic. We will carefully assess on which routes the trains will best serve our passengers," said VR's CEO Elisa Markula.
The deployment of these trains is slated for around 2025, but the commissioning of these Allegro trains is not without its challenges. After sitting idle at VR's depot for more than a year and a half following the suspension of traffic to Russia, these trains will require rigorous technical inspections and maintenance before they are deemed ready for service.
"Getting the trains ready for service is estimated to take about a year, as they have not received necessary maintenance or spare parts have not been ordered due to the unclear situation of the joint venture. The popularity of domestic long-distance traffic and the number of passengers is increasing, which will require future investments in rolling stock to ensure our competitiveness. The Sm6 trains provide one solution to this," commented Markula.
