On 12 March 2025, Stadler and WESTbahn signed a contract for the delivery of three SMILE high-speed trains, marking Stadler's first deployment of high-speed trains in Austria. Designed for speeds of up to 250 km/h, these trains will enter service on the Vienna-Graz-Klagenfurt-Villach route from March 2026, enhancing the country's rail network with improved speed, comfort and accessibility.
The 11-car SMILE trains are to be constructed at Stadler's Bussnang facility in Switzerland and feature a modern, passenger-friendly design. Key amenities include step-free access, accessible toilets in each carriage, spacious bicycle areas, adjustable seating in all classes, free WiFi, and USB ports and power sockets at every seat. The air-conditioned, pressure-resistant compartments ensure a comfortable travel experience.
The SMILE trains, which are compliant with European TSI regulations, will also be equipped for cross-border operations in Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. The new fleet will be integrated into WESTbahn's existing services in under two years, due to a significantly shorter commissioning period than standard high-speed rail projects.
"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," said Christian Diewald, Managing Director of Stadler Austria.
