Iarnród Éireann and Translink have signed a landmark contract with leading Swiss manufacturer Stadler to design, build and technically support a new Enterprise fleet to operate a transformed Belfast – Dublin rail service. 

This major £548m / €698m cross-border investment for new fleet and associated infrastructure, is jointly funded by the Northern Ireland Executive, Department for Infrastructure and the Government of Ireland, Department of Transport, and supported with €165m through PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). 

This partnership will deliver a modern, high quality Intercity rail service - transforming the Enterprise experience for passengers and strengthening one of the island’s most important transport links. 

Eight new tri-mode high spec modern trains have been purpose designed for the flagship route delivering a major step change in comfort and customer experience. With delivery scheduled to start by the end of this decade (2028), trains are due to enter passenger service after a period of testing and commissioning in 2030. 

The fleet is engineered to support the service needed today but also for the future vision of higher speed, net zero carbon emissions and cross-border mobility. 

The new Intercity trains – based on Stadler’s proven FLIRT platform - have been purpose designed for the Enterprise route. With 407 seats, a spacious bar, modern livery options, premium interiors and aerodynamic styling, the new trains reflect a modern, confident rail service ready for the decades ahead. Featuring sleek, modern styling, signature lighting and a refreshed Enterprise livery, the new trains reflect the confidence and ambition of a growing, connected island.  

They are more than a fleet replacement; they signal the future of mobility between Belfast and Dublin.

What will be delivered?  

A new generation of speed and comfort... 

Fully Dedicated, High Quality Fleet 

• Purpose-built, high quality trains designed exclusively for the cross-border Enterprise service. 
• Smoother, quieter and more comfortable journeys enabled by modern traction technologies. 
• Aerodynamic, distinctive exterior design reinforces Enterprise’s premium identity. 

Passenger Comfort & Space 

• 400+ seats with modern, spacious interiors and warm lighting. 
• Dedicated bike areas, generous luggage storage and integrated accessibility spaces across both classes. 
• A premium Enterprise Plus section, galley and bistro bar area providing a high quality food and beverage experience. 

Improving Journey Times  

• With improved acceleration and performance of the fleet and associated infrastructure development, this project will support a target express journey time of under two hours. 
• Capability for further reductions with future investment in infrastructure upgrades. 

A Smarter, More Inclusive Passenger Experience

Technologically Advanced Features 

• External displays showing real time seat availability to improve boarding efficiency. 
• Large internal information screens offering clear, intuitive journey updates. 
• Power sockets and USB ports for charging devices will be available at every seat. 

Built-In Accessibility 

• Unaided boarding available at every door. 
• Step-free train interior. 
• Low floor throughout the train for easier movement. 
• Exceeds PRMTSI – Industry standards for accessibility. 
• Dedicated spaces for those with reduced mobility across both classes, each with tables, power, and easy access to universal toilets. 
• Making the new Enterprise one of the most accessible intercity fleets in Europe. 

A Greener, Cleaner, Future Ready Fleet

TriMode Operation 

• The new Enterprise fleet will be Ireland’s first trimode trains, capable of operating on electric, diesel, and battery power.  
• This will reduce emissions, enable quieter journeys, and ensure seamless operation as the Belfast–Dublin line transitions toward full electrification. 
• The fleet is engineered to support the service needed today but also for the future vision of higher speed, net zero carbon emissions and cross border mobility. 

 Future Ready 

• Fully convertible to zero emission, full electric operation as route electrification progresses. 
• Supports Government net zero commitments and all-island decarbonisation agenda. 

Performance 

• Capable of 176 km/h; upgradeable to 200 km/h where 25kV AC overhead line equipment is provided. 
• Project comprises new simulation, training and operational equipment. 

About SEUPB  

• The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) is a North South Body with the statutory remit for managing EU funding programmes within Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. 
• PEACEPLUS is a cross-border funding Programme designed to support peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. The total value of PEACEPLUS is €1.14 billion. 
• PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive. 
• Find out more at www.seupb.eu  

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