Stadler trains to replace Talgo on key Kazakhstan routes

Tengrinews.kz – Kazakhstan’s Passenger Transportation company has unveiled new Stadler train cars set to gradually replace the country’s Talgo fleet.

Chairman Anuar Akhmetzhanov announced that a contract with Stadler will see the production of 557 train cars by 2030, including sleeper, open-plan, generator, and accessible carriages for passengers with special needs.

The Stadler cars will feature modern air conditioning, video surveillance, electric heating, and automatic fire suppression systems. Each compartment will be equipped with power outlets and USB ports for charging devices.

The design is being tailored specifically for Kazakhstan’s climate and long-distance routes.

The first batch of cars will be delivered by the end of 2025, with Stadler also providing 20 years of technical maintenance.

According to Akhmetzhanov, the first Stadler carriages will begin operating next year on four routes:

• Astana – Almaty (№ 3/4)
• Astana – Semey (№ 353/354)
• Astana – Shymkent (№ 85/86)
• Astana – Atyrau (№ 47/48)

Kazakhstan previously confirmed it will not purchase new Talgo trains, with existing ones continuing in service until the end of their lifespan. Currently, 14 Talgo trainsets operate on 14 routes, comprising around 732 carriages.

Stadler’s rollout marks a shift in Kazakhstan’s passenger rail system, aiming to improve comfort and adapt rolling stock to the country’s vast geography.