PRESS RELEASE 09/02/2026 - Hellenic Train’s New Coradia Stream trains enter the Certification Process
Athens, 09/02/2026 – The type-certification process for Hellenic Train’s new electric rolling stock has commenced on the Greek rail network, following the arrival in Greece of the Coradia Stream test train, as part of the company’s investment programme for fleet renewal.
The Coradia Stream test train has arrived in the country and is currently based at Hellenic Train’s depot in Thessaloniki, where it will remain when not operating test runs as part of the rolling-stock approval process.
The test train will undergo extensive trials under real operating conditions in order to obtain rolling-stock type certification from the competent national and European authorities. The process is being carried out in close cooperation between Hellenic Train, Alstom and the relevant national and European bodies, ensuring that the new trains fully comply with all safety requirements in accordance with the applicable national and European regulatory framework.
Testing on the Greek rail network will take place until the end of May and will cover, among other aspects, compatibility with the power-supply system, interaction with rail infrastructure and the operation of critical technical systems.
The train is used exclusively for inspection and testing purposes, does not feature any interior or exterior elements intended for passenger use, and is equipped with specialized measurement systems, as required by European and national legislation. During the testing period, trials are conducted following the completion of the relevant training of certified drivers.
The certification process forms part of the market authorization procedure and is expected to be completed in December 2026, subject to the issuance of the required approvals by the Regulatory Authority for Railways (RAS) and the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA).
The test train is of the same type as the units that will join Hellenic Train’s fleet and incorporates the same technological and operational characteristics as the new Coradia Stream trains. The Coradia family, of which Coradia Stream is the most recent development, is one of Alstom’s most successful train platforms, with more than 4,500 units currently in operation across Europe, Africa and North America.
The certification process constitutes an integral part of Hellenic Train’s overall investment programme, amounting to €308 million, aimed at renewing and strengthening its fleet, modernising rail transport and progressively upgrading the services provided to passengers.
The Alternate Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Konstantinos Kyranakis, stated on the occasion: “New trains mean greater reliability, modern safety standards, consistent service delivery and higher speeds—ultimately, a significantly enhanced passenger experience. The test train is already in Greece and is beginning the scheduled trial runs. For the first time in 20 years, such a major investment is being implemented to upgrade the Greek railway at every level—across infrastructure, stations and rolling stock—with the aim of delivering a railway system that is more modern, faster and more reliable for citizens. I would like to thank the Italian Government and the Italian Ferrovie dello Stato Group for this investment of strategic importance.”
Commenting on the certification process, Roberto Rinaudo, Chief Executive Officer of Hellenic Train, stated: “The certification of the new trains is a fully regulated and demanding process, carried out with safety and compliance with the European and national regulatory framework as absolute priorities. The process is progressing in line with the established planning, through testing under real operating conditions and in close cooperation with all competent authorities, enabling us to move forward consistently to the next stages towards the introduction of a new, modern fleet that will contribute to the gradual upgrading of rail services for passengers.”
From Alstom’s side, Panagiota Kati, Managing Director of Alstom Greece, noted: “We are fully committed to the delivery of this important milestone for both Alstom and Greece. The new fleet of modern electric trains, manufactured at Alstom’s Centre of Excellence in Savigliano, will ensure high levels of energy efficiency, safety and reliable operation, while offering the highest standards of comfort and accessibility for all passengers. Certification is a complex process, expected to last approximately one year, and will be carried out with the utmost care and responsibility, as it directly relates to the long-term safety and comfort of passengers.”
Read more at: newrollingstock.hellenictrain.en
