« Go back

VR FleetCare developed transfer bogies – the solution facilitates the transfer of rolling stock from Sweden to Finland for maintenance

On 9 January 2026, SJ’s first X40 electric train arrived in Oulu by rail from Sweden via Haaparanta and Tornio using the transfer bogies developed by VR FleetCare. In future, the solution will enable the transfer of European gauge rolling stock by rail from Sweden to VR FleetCare’s locations in Finland for maintenance or modernisation. Innovation supports sustainable development and makes the transfer of rolling stock more efficient.

This is a significant moment in Finland's railway history. For the first time in a long time, a passenger train is transported by rail to Finland – albeit without passengers. This is a step towards more sustainable and efficient logistics. Previously, rolling stock transfers were transported by road in Finland due to the different track gauges.

"The smooth transport of rolling stock from other Nordic countries to Finland strengthens our position in the train maintenance sector. We offer our customers innovative and sustainable solutions that also support their competitiveness by combining excellence and innovative technology into responsible services. The transfer bogie project demonstrates that we manage demanding technical implementations and develop new concepts that advance rail transport", says Peter Guldbrand, Head of Sales and project management at VR FleetCare.

An innovative solution for maintenance-related rolling stock transfers

VR FleetCare and the Swedish railway operator SJ AB are carrying out an extensive X40 train modernisation project, in which 27 double-decker electric trains will be refurbished at VR FleetCare’s Oulu project centre. The modernisation will extend the life cycle of the trains by 15–20 years and improve travel comfort. The last overhauled trains will return to service in early 2028.

"Due to the track gauge difference between Finland and Sweden, we have developed new types of transfer bogies designed specifically for transporting foreign rolling stock for maintenance and modernisation in Finland. With these transfer bogies, SJ’s trains undergoing modernisation can be transferred in Tornio onto special bogies compliant with Finland’s track gauge, then transported entirely by rail to Oulu. The innovation reduces the environmental impact of transport and supports the sustainability transition in rail traffic", says Guldbrand.

"Keeping a low environmental footprint is an important aspect for all SJ’s operations including refurbishments of our vehicles. We are therefore very happy for this achievement which will eliminate the need of oversized load truck transportation, coach by coach, on the Finish side. Moreover, the trainset will no longer be additionally disassembled and re-assembled outside workshops, minimizing the risk of connection problems in the future", says Jakob Wingren, Head of Railcar X40 at SJ.

VR FleetCare has invested nearly EUR 10 million in the development of the Oulu project centre – the new paint shop and improved facilities create an excellent setting for various rolling stock modernisation projects. In future, the solution will make the transfer of foreign rolling stock to Finland smoother, more efficient and lower-emission.