Our trains
New generation of double-decker trains
NS ordered a total of 60 new double-decker trains from Spanish train manufacturer CAF in 2022. These New Generation Double-Decker (DDNG) trains consist of both single-decker and double-decker coaches, combining a floor-level entrance with a high capacity. The design was presented in March 2025 with a full-size mock-up. Production of the train then started. Following an extensive testing and approval phase, the first new trains are expected to arrive on Dutch tracks around 2029.
Intercity New Generation
Since 2016, NS has ordered 109 Intercity New Generation trains (ICNG) from train manufacturer Alstom. Of these, 77 are destined for deployment in the Netherlands and 32 trains are also suitable for onward travel to Belgium or Germany. By the end of 2025, 65 ICNGs had been delivered.
Since October 2025, all NS journeys on the High Speed Line (HSL) have been operated with ICNGs. This marked the end of the era of ICR coaches and Traxx locomotives at NS. The new Intercity will also be used for all Eurocity Direct journeys between Amsterdam South and Brussels South. The ICNG's performance shows a positive trend, partly due to software updates.
After introducing longer trains on the HSL to increase seating, NS plans to start running ICNGs between Schiphol and Groningen (in both directions) in the course of 2026.
New Sprinter trains
At the end of 2025, NS placed an order of over €400 million for 36 new Sprinters with Swiss train manufacturer Stadler. These ultramodern trains, known as the Flirt Flex, can be used as both Sprinter and Intercity trains, enabling NS to respond flexibly to growing passenger demand. NS has asked Stadler to provide a comfortable, reliable and easily accessible train that offers fast acceleration and deceleration, and is suitable for speeds of up to 160 km/h. Unlike the current Sprinters, the Flirt Flex once again feature the classic yellow and blue NS colour scheme. NS is keeping open the option to purchase additional Flirt Flex trains, including trains that are also suitable for journeys to Germany and Belgium. The first trains are expected to become operational in the Netherlands in 2030.
Modernisation
In late 2025, NS began modernising 51 VIRM4 double-decker trains. This modernisation is in line with the now-completed modernisation of trains from the slightly older VIRM series. The VIRM4 will undergo updates including new floors, new walls and new seats. The wheelchair-accessible toilet will also be improved so that it will soon be easier to access. And there will be an additional screen displaying travel information in the wheelchair space. This modernisation will ensure that the trains can last for many years to come as well as improving passenger comfort. The first modernised trains in this series are expected to become operational by the end of 2026.
Outflow
NS does not just invest in the purchase or overhaul of new trains, we also stop using old rolling stock. We prefer to sell our old trains so that they can continue to be used for longer elsewhere.
The last ICR coaches, hauled by a TRAXX locomotive, were withdrawn from service in 2025. These trains have been replaced by the ICNG. The TRAXX locomotives had been leased and will be returned to the leasing company. The ICR coaches have been put up for sale. NS expects to announce who will buy which carriages in 2026.
Where NS does not sell its trains, for example due to lack of interest, they may be dismantled. NS adopts a circular approach to this process. You can read more about this in the sustainability chapter.
