Montenegro has entered into a significant agreement with Swiss rail manufacturer Stadler for the acquisition of three four-car FLIRT electric trains, representing a pivotal step in the country’s railway modernization efforts. Valued at approximately EUR 30 million, this contract is supported by financing from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and aims to enhance rail transport as part of Montenegro’s national mobility and tourism strategy.
This procurement marks the introduction of Stadler rolling stock into Montenegro, aligning the country with a growing network of FLIRT operators in Central and Southeast Europe, including neighboring Serbia and Slovenia. The new trains are expected to facilitate modern cross-border operations between Montenegro and Serbia, enhancing regional connectivity.
Each trainset will feature around 244 seats and can operate at speeds of up to 160 km/h. They will be equipped with contemporary passenger amenities such as air conditioning, digital information displays, video surveillance, bicycle storage, and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility. Delivery of the trains is anticipated within three years, although Željeznički prevoz Crne Gore (ŽPCG) officials express hope for an earlier rollout.
The investment reflects a strategic shift in Montenegro’s transport policy, which has historically favored road infrastructure over rail development. Despite having one of Europe’s highest railway electrification rates relative to network size—over 90%—much of the existing rolling stock remains outdated. The new FLIRT fleet aims to replace older locomotive-hauled passenger services, contributing to an estimated 53% reduction in CO₂ emissions during the evaluation period from 2026 to 2037.
As Montenegro seeks to align its transport infrastructure with EU climate goals, rail modernization emerges as a critical opportunity for reducing emissions while bolstering tourism mobility. The country’s Adriatic coastline faces seasonal congestion and infrastructure strain during peak tourist periods, making modern rail services increasingly vital for domestic travel and tourism flows connecting the coast with Serbia and other regional routes.
The Bar–Belgrade railway corridor is particularly significant in this context, serving as a key economic artery in the Western Balkans. Long hampered by outdated infrastructure and slow travel times, this corridor has gained renewed attention in discussions surrounding EU connectivity initiatives and cross-border transport improvements.
The FLIRT train purchase signifies more than just an upgrade of rolling stock; it indicates Montenegro’s intent to reposition rail transport within a broader European-style public mobility framework. Additionally, Montenegro becomes the 50th country globally to adopt Stadler technology, underscoring the manufacturer’s success across various markets.
This project also highlights the ongoing role of multilateral financing institutions like the EBRD in supporting Montenegro’s infrastructure development. The bank remains a key financier for projects aimed at sustainability and regional integration, particularly in the transport sector.
As Montenegro pursues substantial investments across various infrastructures—including roads, ports, airports, and digital networks—the modernization of its railway system plays a crucial role in enhancing tourism resilience and logistics connectivity while supporting EU accession efforts. However, challenges remain regarding speed limitations, infrastructure upgrades, signaling systems, and long-term maintenance financing. Additional capital expenditures will be necessary for track rehabilitation and safety system enhancements if rail is to compete effectively with road transport.
Overall, the agreement with Stadler represents a notable shift in Montenegro’s transport policy focus towards electrification and sustainability while reaffirming the importance of rail infrastructure in long-term mobility planning.
