Class GTW2/8 "Spurt"

Number series: 10 301 - 10 327, 345, 346
UIC Class: 95 84 5010/11/12/15 xxx-x
Number built: 29
Number in service: 29 (October 2009)
Introduced: 2006-2007
Axle arrangement: 2'2'Bo'2'
Continuous power rating: 600kW
Maximum speed: 140km/h
Weight in working order: 87 tonnes
Length: 55.937m
Floor height: 830mm/996mm
Wheel diameter (new): 860mm/750mm
Transmission: Dieselelectric
Builder: Stadler (Switzerland)
Passenger seating: 16 first and 156 second class

In the early years of the 21st century the Wadloper trainsets and motor cars got more and more problems, and a thorough revision was duly needed. Instead the Provices decided to withdraw these trainsets and buy new ones for operation by Arriva.

Stadler was chosen to provide trainsets of their well-known GTW2/6 and GTW2/8 design, although the Arriva units are "Phase 4" with improved behaviour in crashes. 16 2-car and 27 3-car units were ordered and delivered from 2006. The trainsets consist of passenger coaches and a short motor unit without passenger accomodation. 8 trainsets are suited for operation in Germany, and can thus be used for the Groningen-Nieuweschans-Leer(D) service.

Apart from 16 first class and 156 second-class seating the trainsets have 14 folding seats. In summer the layout can be changed such that there is more space for a.o. bikes. Then there are 16 first class, 148 second class and 21 tip-up seats.

As total capacity is already not enough with the new trainsets and for the new Groningen-Veendam service, six additional 2-car and two 3-car trainsets were ordered. The new 3-car sets arrived in September 2009 and are numbered 345 and 346.