Regional trains

Regional train for long-distance traffic

The regional trains for long-distance traffic operate shorter routes between population centres. They also provide convenient further connections for the InterCity and Pendolino trains. For example, regional trains take you from Savonlinna to Parikkala.

Regional trains are railbuses.

Railbuses

Railbuses are diesel trains. They are intended for non-electrified track sections on which electric trains cannot operate. The railbus manufacturer is ČKD Vagonka, a Czech company. The maximum speed is 120 km/h.

Railbuses Dm12

Free wi-fi (VR-junaverkko)

Space for bikes

Space for prams

Wheelchair spaces and wheelchair lifts

Accessible toilets

Seats for passengers travelling with pets

Overhead racks for luggage

Please note that railbuses have less space for luggage than other trains

Regional train operations

Railbuses

  • Pieksämäki–Joensuu–Nurmes
  • Iisalmi–Ylivieska
  • Savonlinna–Parikkala
  • Tampere–Keuruu
  • Jyväskylä–Seinäjoki

Regional trains need no locomotives

Railbuses and electric trains have no locomotives, as the machinery moving the train is part of the coach. Railbuses operate on non-electrified railway line sections and electric trains, which are commuter trains, on electrified sections.

Regional trains do not have a separate locomotive, railbus in the picture.

Remember lättähattu?

Valmet’s blue-grey railbuses, manufactured in 1954–1963, were known by the name lättähattu (‘flat cap’). They replaced steam locomotives in local traffic. The last flat caps were taken out of use at the end of the 1980s.