ChrisTrains Stadler RS-1

The Stadler Regio-Shuttle RS1 is the first widely used, new-generation, diesel railcar in Germany for local railway services. Its most characteristic feature is the trapezium-shaped window frames. The Regio-Shuttle is classified by the Deutsche Bahn as Class 650, however numerous private railways have their own Regio-Shuttles.

Originally an ADtranz product, the RS1 is now being built and sold by Stadler Rail AG. The RS1 is a standard gauge railbus built to UIC standards, available with centre buffer couplings or the usual European Buffers and chain couplers.
65% of the vehicle floor is low-level and designed for a platform height of 55 cm. The railbus has a high-level floor over the two four-wheeled bogies at each end.

Two independent diesel-mechanical drive units, e.g. from MAN or IVECO, run either on diesel fuel or Biodiesel from rape seed oil, each drive both axles on one of the two bogies.

The RS1's appearance is striking because of its window design. This diagonal pillar system reduces weight and improves passenger views and flexibility of the seating layout.

From an operational point of view the Regio-Shuttle may be used for one-man operations on full gauge railways without any restrictions. Its relatively small capacity (maximum under 170 passengers) is balanced by the fact that the vehicle can be driven in multiples of up to seven units. A rake of five RS1's can thus handle a maximum of just under 850 passengers, albeit somewhat uneconomical compared with a locomotive-hauled train due to the fuel consumption of its ten diesel motors.

Traction: Diesel
Power: 2x257kW (345hp)
Axle formation: Bo-Bo
Length: 25.5m
Maximum speed: 120 km/h
Weight: 40.0 ton
Number built: 497
Built by: Stadler Rail AG
Year entered service: 2005