by InTrieste
As part of a sweeping overhaul of regional public transport in Northern Italy, Friuli Venezia Giulia is replacing over 80 percent of its current trains with state-of-the-art electric and hybrid models in a bid to slash emissions and improve passenger comfort. The initiative, spearheaded by Trenitalia and backed by substantial regional funds, is being hailed as a significant step toward sustainability in Italian transportation.
Regional Councillor for Infrastructure and Territory, Cristina Amirante, announced the ambitious project earlier this week during a presentation at Rome’s Ostiense station. The launch showcased the new, unified green livery that will adorn Trenitalia’s regional fleet—a symbol of the company’s commitment to environmental innovation.
“The Friuli Venezia Giulia Region has actively participated and provided significant financial support for this operation,” Amirante said. “We are replacing over 80 percent of the current fleet with new electric and hybrid trains, which will reduce energy consumption by more than 30 percent compared to older models.”
The upgrades come as part of a 2022-2031 service agreement between Friuli Venezia Giulia and Trenitalia. Over the next several years, 23 outdated trains will be replaced with 14 sleek “Rock” electric trains and 9 hybrid “Blues” trains. These new additions promise more than just energy savings—they will enhance the passenger experience with features like onboard phone and laptop charging stations, bicycle recharge points, and improved accessibility for travelers with reduced mobility.
The region’s investment, totaling over €300 million, is paired with a broader commitment to modernizing rail service. An additional €163.4 million, sourced from national and EU funds, will be allocated to renew rolling stock, while the Friuli Venezia Giulia region will contribute €800 million to cover both operating and capital costs.
The new trains, which echo the sleek green design of Italy’s high-speed Freccia and Intercity fleets, are also part of a broader national effort to reduce reliance on cars and attract more commuters to public transportation. The project aligns with Italy’s goals to curb carbon emissions and shift toward more sustainable infrastructure.
Amirante believes the modernization could be a turning point in attracting new passengers. “All of this will encourage more people to leave their cars and opt for local trains,” she said. “The trains will be safer, more comfortable, and more environmentally friendly.”
Beyond the technical improvements, the trains will also carry symbolic weight. Alongside the region’s “Io Sono Friuli Venezia Giulia” branding, the new fleet will feature the “Go!2025” logo, a nod to Nova Gorica-Gorizia’s designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2025. Trenitalia hopes these trains will serve not only as transportation but as mobile ambassadors, promoting the region and its cultural significance on a larger European stage.
With this green fleet soon rolling across the region, Friuli Venezia Giulia appears poised to become a leader in Italy’s ongoing shift toward sustainable public transport—setting a high bar for innovation and environmental stewardship on the rails.
