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SL C30
SL C30
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SL C30
An arriving C30 train at Liljeholmen metro station
Interior of a C30 carriage
In service2020–present
ManufacturerBombardier Transportation
Alstom
AssemblyHennigsdorf, Germany
Family nameMovia
ReplacedAll remaining SL CX trains
Constructed2016–2024
Entered service11 August 2020
Number under constructionTotal delivery of 464 carriages (116 sets)
Formation4 cars (A1–B1–B2–A2) per unit, 2 units per train
Fleet numbers2301–2416
Capacity634 per unit at 5 standees/m2[1]
OperatorsMTR (under contract from Storstockholms Lokaltrafik)
DepotsNorsborg and Nyboda depots
Lines servedRed line on the Stockholm metro
Specifications
Car body constructionWelded aluminium extrusions[2][1]
Train length70 m (229 ft 7+2932 in) per unit[1]
Width2,915 mm (9 ft 6+4964 in)
Height3,915 mm (12 ft 10+964 in)
Floor height1,155 mm (3 ft 9+1532 in)
Doors3 per side[1]
Wheel diameter825 mm (2 ft 8+3164 in)
Wheelbase11 m (36 ft 1+564 in) between boogie centers
Maximum speed
  • 90 km/h (56 mph) (design)
  • 80 km/h (50 mph) (service)
Weight116 t (114 long tons; 128 short tons)
Traction systemAlstom MITRAC TC1500 SiCVVVF[3]
Traction motors12 × Bombardier TM1820AS 3-phase AC induction motor
Acceleration1.1 m/s2 (3.6 ft/s2)
Deceleration1.1 m/s2 (3.6 ft/s2)
Electric system(s)650–750 V DC third rail
Current collectionContact shoe
UIC classification2′Bo′+Bo′Bo′+Bo′Bo′+Bo′2′
BogiesBombardier FLEXX Eco
Safety system(s)ATC/ATO and CBTC (not in use)
Coupling systemDellner Type 330
Seating140 per unit[1]
Track gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+12 in) standard gauge

The SL C30 is a type of metro train used on the Stockholm metro in Stockholm County, Sweden.

The first C30 set was inaugurated in 2020 on the Red line, and they have subsequently replaced all the older rolling stock dating back to the 1970s and 1980s.[4] 116 sets have been delivered to Stockholm by Bombardier Transportation and subsequently by Alstom.[5][6] A set consists of four carriages which are attached by gangways.[4]

The train is based on the Movia platform,[7] which is the same as its predecessor, the C20.[8] The C30 has air conditioning and more wheelchair space, compared to the C20.[9]

Technical details

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The C30 trains are based on the Alstom Movia platform,[7] which also underpins the older C20 trains.[8] The Movia design was originally developed by Adtranz before the company's acquisition by Bombardier Transportation.

Each C30 unit measures 70.0 metres in length, and two units are normally coupled to form a 140-metre train, corresponding to the maximum platform length on the Stockholm metro.[10] In comparison, the C20 stock consists of 46.5-metre-long units, while earlier "CX" series trains were approximately 17 metres long.[11] Each C30 unit is composed of four car bodies, designated A1, B1, B2, and A2, and accommodates approximately 140 seats.[12]

The C30's bogie arrangement follows a conventional design, with two bogies under each car body, unlike the C20, which uses four bogies per unit. The cars are interconnected with full-width, open gangways covered by flexible bellows. The car bodies are constructed from aluminium rather than steel, and the underframe and bogies are enclosed to reduce noise, drag, and ice build-up during winter conditions.[citation needed]

Although the C30 offers fewer seats per metre than the C20, it provides improved comfort, including full air conditioning, reduced noise levels, wider doorways, and a smoother ride, supported by newly developed Flexx bogies. A C30 unit weighs approximately 116 tonnes, corresponding to 1.66 tonnes per metre, which is about 15% heavier than a C20 unit.[citation needed]

Manufacturing was divided between Bombardier Sifang (Qingdao) Transportation Ltd. (BST) in China and Bombardier’s plant in Hennigsdorf near Berlin, Germany. Climatic testing was conducted at Rail Tec Arsenal’s facilities in Vienna, Austria.[13]

The initial procurement included 96 trains for a cost of 5.1 billion SEK (at 2013 prices), later expanded to 116 trains, with a price per 140-metre train of approximately 106 million SEK.[14]

The C30 features LED headlights and an exterior with smooth, painted aluminium panels, replacing the bare corrugated sheet metal used on C20 rolling stock.

Service

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C30 trains were first introduced into passenger service on the Red line.[15] Once the full fleet is delivered, surplus units will be deployed on the Blue line.[16] C20 trains replaced by C30 units on the Red line have been reassigned to the Green and Blue lines.

Interior

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The C30 is equipped with speech-synthesised passenger announcements, using the Elin voice developed by Acapela Group, replacing the earlier pre-recorded Linda voice.[17] The interior includes air conditioning throughout, expanded areas for pushchairs and wheelchairs, and an emphasis on standing room, meaning slightly reduced seating capacity compared to previous stock.[18][19]

The seat upholstery, woven from wool, features a pattern inspired by the paving of Sergels torg.[20][21] Most seats are dark-grey, while yellow seats are reserved for passengers with special needs. Some fabric patterns incorporate subtle images, such as a girl with a balloon or couples holding hands.

Certain ventilation grilles beneath the windows are perforated with decorative motifs as easter eggs, including the Swedish Three Crowns symbol, Pac-Man figures, media control icons, and heart shapes.[22]

To match the new C30 stock, the older C20 trains underwent a mid-life refurbishment between 2019 and 2023, which introduced longitudinal seating on one side of each carriage, removal of seats to provide wheelchair and pushchair spaces, replacement of upholstery including marked priority seats, and the installation of information screens and additional CCTV cameras.[23]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The SL C30 is a class of metro trains manufactured by (now ) and operated by (SL) on the in . Introduced under a framework contract signed in 2013, the SL C30 trains represent a significant modernization of Stockholm's metro fleet, with the first units entering on 11 August 2020 on the Red Line to replace older CX-series trains dating back to the . As of November 2025, 116 trains are in operation, following the initial order of 96 units expanded by options including a 2024 addition of 20 more four-car sets, enhancing capacity for the metro system that serves over 1 million daily passengers. Part of Alstom's Movia platform, the SL C30 features a with two-car units (each approximately 70 meters long when coupled) that can form longer consists, offering a top speed of 90 km/h, a standard gauge of 1,435 mm, and energy-efficient operations compliant with Swedish environmental standards. Key innovations include the first air-conditioning system in , 24 wide doors per four-car train for faster boarding, and enhanced with dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and prams, alongside 140 seats and capacity for up to 640 passengers per four-car unit. The trains incorporate elements, such as a white exterior with distinctive front lighting and playful ventilation patterns, modern LED interiors using sustainable Swedish , and advanced digital systems in the driver's cabs at both ends, preparing the fleet for potential future GoA4 driverless automation. Currently deployed on the and —with approval for the —the SL C30 supports SL's goals of improving reliability, passenger comfort, and , including reduced energy consumption and easier maintenance through standardized components. By February 2024, these trains had fully supplanted the last CX units, marking the end of an era for Stockholm's original metro .

Overview

Introduction

The SL C30 is a four-car articulated metro train unit based on the platform, primarily operated on the metro's and , with approval for the Line. It entered passenger service on August 11, 2020, marking a significant upgrade to the system's . Manufactured by (now part of ), a total of 116 units (comprising 464 cars) have been ordered for the fleet. Each unit measures 70 meters in length and accommodates up to 634 passengers, including 140 seats arranged in a mix of transverse and longitudinal configurations. The serves , , under the public transport authority (SL), primarily to replace the aging CX-series trains and enhance capacity on high-traffic routes. This modernization effort supports daily transport for over 1 million passengers across the network.

Procurement and development

In June 2013, (SL), the authority for , awarded a valued at approximately 5.1 billion SEK (around €590 million or US$771 million) to supply 96 four-car MOVIA C30 metro trainsets for the Red Line, with options for up to 80 additional units. The procurement aimed to modernize the fleet and increase capacity on the 41 km north-south route, incorporating advanced features for enhanced passenger flow. The design of the C30 was unveiled by Bombardier in March 2015 at the EurasiaRail exhibition in , highlighting key innovations such as bi-parting doors at each end of the cars to accelerate boarding and alighting, and a mixed seating arrangement in a 4x4 configuration to balance comfort and standing space for higher throughput. During development, the original specification for fully driverless (GoA4) operation was adjusted to manned control upon introduction, though the trains retain advanced automation systems compatible with future conversion to unattended operation. Swedish-specific adaptations were integrated, including decorative perforations on ventilation grilles featuring motifs like the national emblem, reflecting local cultural elements in the Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic. Construction commenced in 2016 at Bombardier's facility in Hennigsdorf, , with the first prototype arriving in for testing in the summer of 2018. Deliveries of production units began in June 2020, following , with deliveries of the initial order of 96 trainsets ongoing into 2025. In March 2024, following 's acquisition of , SL exercised an option under the original framework to order 20 additional C30 trainsets, increasing the total ordered to 116 units and supporting expanded capacity on the Red Line. This extension ensures continued fleet growth through 2025 and beyond. As of 2025, the trains are deployed on the Red and . In May 2025, signed a five-year digital support agreement for the C30 fleet.

Design and technology

Technical specifications

The SL C30 is constructed as a 70 m long articulated four-car unit, composed of four cars each measuring approximately 17.5 m in , a width of 2.92 m, a height of 3.92 m, and a floor height of 1.155 m above the rails. The bodyshell utilizes lightweight for enhanced durability and efficiency. Each unit weighs 116 tonnes and accommodates up to 634 passengers, including 140 seated in a mixed transverse and longitudinal seating layout, with dedicated multi-purpose areas for bicycles and strollers. Performance characteristics include a maximum speed of 90 km/h and a service speed of 80 km/h, operating on a standard 1,435 mm gauge. The units are equipped with LED headlights and full throughout. For operations, SL C30 units are to couple in pairs, forming 140 m long eight-car trains, and feature twelve bi-parting doors per side per unit (three per car)—with a clear opening width of 1,400 mm—to facilitate efficient passenger boarding and alighting.

Propulsion and systems

The SL C30 train employs the Bombardier MITRAC system, which utilizes asynchronous AC induction motors to deliver smooth acceleration and a maximum speed of 90 km/h. This system, manufactured in Västerås, , powers the four-car units through distributed traction, ensuring efficient performance across the Stockholm 's demanding routes. The trains draw power from a 750 V DC third-rail supply, optimized for low that aligns with environmental standards for urban rail transport. is integrated into the setup, converting during deceleration back into electrical power, which reduces brake wear and further enhances overall efficiency. The emphasizes , with 98% of materials being recyclable to minimize environmental impact. Control systems include the OrbiFlo remote technology, enabling by tracking component health in real time. The trains operate at Grade of Automation 2 (GoA2), providing semi-automatic train operation with driver's cabs at each end for manual oversight during acceleration, braking, and door operations. This setup is compatible with Stockholm's advanced signaling infrastructure, supporting potential upgrades to higher levels in the future. The design features Bombardier FLEXX Eco inboard-bearing H-frame bogies, with two bogies per car for stable running and reduced maintenance needs. These bogies incorporate noise-reduction measures, such as optimized wheel-rail interaction, to lower acoustic emissions during operation. End cars utilize connections to the adjacent cars, enhancing ride comfort and load distribution. technologies include LED interior and exterior for improved visibility and savings, alongside full integration with the metro's safety signaling protocols.

Passenger experience

Interior design

The interior of the SL C30 metro train features an open-plan layout designed to maximize flow and capacity, incorporating dedicated standing areas alongside seating arrangements. This configuration includes bi-parting doors that facilitate quick access and efficient boarding, as detailed in the technical specifications. The design emphasizes space optimization for high-volume commuting, accommodating up to 640 passengers per four-car unit during peak hours, with a focus on standing capacity to handle surges in demand. Seating consists of 140 wool-upholstered positions arranged in a mixed 4x4 configuration, blending transverse and longitudinal benches to balance comfort and circulation. The upholstery, sourced from Swedish wool, incorporates a pattern inspired by the iconic paving of in central , adding a touch of local aesthetic identity while prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance. Priority seating is provided for passengers requiring assistance, contributing to an inclusive cabin environment. Enhanced LED interior lighting illuminates the space evenly, supporting visibility and a modern ambiance. Amenities include speech-synthesized passenger announcements delivered in Swedish and English to aid , complemented by interior displays showing route maps and upcoming stops for real-time guidance. Decorative elements enhance the cultural feel, such as ventilation grilles under the windows patterned with playful Swedish motifs—including the national symbol and Pac-Man-inspired figures referencing the country's gaming heritage—blending functionality with subtle artistry. The cabin benefits from full throughout, a first for Stockholm's metro fleet, ensuring consistent comfort across seasons. Soundproofing measures, including sliding plug doors and insulated materials, result in a quieter ride compared to previous generations like the C20, reducing interior noise levels for a more pleasant journey.

Accessibility features

The SL C30 metro trains incorporate dedicated wheelchair spaces in each car, featuring securement points for stability and positioned adjacent to priority seating to enhance and convenience for passengers with mobility impairments. These spaces provide more room than in predecessor models, supporting up to two s per car while maintaining overall passenger capacity. Entry is facilitated by a low-floor with a floor height of 1.155 m above the rail, which aligns closely with platforms to reduce gaps, combined with wide double-leaf doors offering a clear opening of 1.4 m and standing at 1.9 m in height for unobstructed access; the articulated structure ensures no steps between cars, allowing level passage throughout the train. This configuration promotes independent boarding for users and those with walking aids, contributing to shorter dwell times at stations. To assist passengers with visual or hearing impairments, the trains feature tactile maps at key entry points, braille lettering on control panels and emergency devices, high-contrast color schemes and markings on floors and handrails for low-vision navigation, and integrated visual displays alongside audio announcements for real-time station and safety information. These aids were refined during prototyping to address diverse sensory needs. Multi-purpose areas near the doors accommodate prams, bicycles, or oversized luggage, equipped with foldable seats that can be stowed to create flexible space without compromising general . These zones support families and travelers with additional requirements alongside users. The SL C30's accessibility provisions align with requirements under Regulation (EC) No 1370/2007, which mandates non-discriminatory access in public passenger transport services; features were in development phases to suit Stockholm's multicultural and aging ridership, ensuring inclusive operations across the network.

Operations and service

Deployment

The SL C30 trains entered on August 11, 2020, initially operating on the Red Line of the , specifically along its northeast-southwest corridor, including branches to Mörby centrum. This marked the beginning of a phased rollout aimed at replacing the aging C20 fleet, with the new trains gradually integrating into daily operations to enhance capacity and efficiency on this high-demand route. As of 2025, the C30 trains primarily serve the Red Line, the metro's busiest corridor spanning 41.2 km, under a contract operated by Connecting Stockholm on behalf of Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (SL), following the transition from MTR Nordic in November 2025. Surplus units from the fleet delivery have undergone trials on the Blue Line, demonstrating compatibility for broader network integration. The order for 116 train units (464 cars) is being fulfilled, with deliveries ongoing as of 2025, enabling the formation of four-car consists measuring 140 m in length, which support peak-hour schedules capable of transporting up to 60,000 passengers per hour across the system. In service, the C30 has demonstrated improved performance over its predecessors, including shorter dwell times at stations facilitated by enhanced accessibility features and efficient door configurations, contributing to overall higher punctuality rates on the network. The trains have maintained high reliability with no major operational incidents reported since deployment. Future expansion includes potential full-scale deployment on the Blue Line following the complete replacement of C20 trains on the Red Line, allowing SL to optimize fleet utilization across the 25.5 km route and further boost system-wide capacity.

Maintenance and depots

The SL C30 trains are primarily stabled, cleaned, and undergo minor repairs at two key depots: the Norsborg depot in the south of Stockholm, which serves as a new purpose-built facility for the fleet, and the central Nyboda depot. These depots are equipped to handle the C30 trains, facilitating efficient turnaround and integration with infrastructure. Maintenance for the SL C30 fleet incorporates predictive monitoring through Bombardier's Orbiflo remote system, which enables proactive servicing to minimize and optimize reliability. This technology, integrated with the Mitrac propulsion system, supports condition-based maintenance practices that reduce unplanned interruptions. Alstom, following its acquisition of Bombardier Transportation, provides ongoing support infrastructure under an extension of the original rolling stock supply contract, including a five-year digital support agreement effective from April 2025 for the Movia C30 and C20 fleets. This agreement encompasses cybersecurity monitoring, tailored digital solutions, parts availability, and training programs for technical staff employed by Connecting Stockholm, the current operator contracted by (SL). Efficiency measures in the SL C30's design and servicing contribute to lower operational costs, with the low-energy and Mitrac system's capabilities reducing overall compared to predecessor models. Servicing protocols emphasize environmental compliance, incorporating sustainable practices such as the use of recyclable materials and fluids in processes to align with Stockholm's goals.

References

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