SL C20
| Industry | Rail vehicle manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Kalmar , Sweden |
| Products | Metro trains (including SL C20) |
The SL C20 represents a model of metro train serving the Stockholm metro system in Sweden. Delivered between 1997 and 2004, a total of 271 three-car trainsets (numbered 2000–2270) were produced by Kalmar Verkstad, initially under Adtranz and subsequently owned by Bombardier Transportation. The C20 introduces a completely new design that is not compatible with earlier rolling stock. Each carriage extends in length, surpassing previous models. To optimize both cost and weight, the trainsets employ four bogies per unit: one beneath each end car and two located under the central car, linked through semi-trailer articulation. The use of stainless steel trolley subframes provides enhanced protection against corrosion.
As the first new fleet introduced since the mid-1980s models C14 and C15, the C20 was branded as Vagn 2000 (Wagon 2000) and positioned as a modernized subway vehicle. Outside of Stockholm, the only other purchaser was the Bucharest Metro, which acquired 18 MOVIA 346 trains based on the C20 blueprint in 1999, followed by an additional 26 units in 2004. Each individual C20 carriage carries a unique name, often inspired by Stockholm-related themes; for instance, carriage number 2012 was designated Estelle in honor of Princess Estelle.
Refurbishment
From 2019 through 2023, both the prototype C20F and 270 three-car C20 trainsets underwent extensive mid-life upgrades at the Alstom facility (formerly Bombardier Transportation) located in Västerås, Västmanland. After refurbishment, these trains were reclassified as C20U or C25. The modernization enhanced standing room by converting one side of each carriage to longitudinal seating arrangements, similar to those found on the C1 and C30 models. Additionally, some seats near the ends of cars were removed to accommodate spaces for wheelchairs and strollers. Seat coverings were replaced with new yellow fabric to identify priority seating areas. Moreover, each upgraded C20 set was equipped with 16 CCTV cameras, an increase from the previous count of six per car.
C20F
The prototype model, designated C20F, incorporates "FICAS" technology—a modular construction method where stainless steel is bonded to a rigid composite core—resulting in walls that are significantly thinner (25mm compared to the 100mm thickness on standard C20 cars) and offering a more spacious interior without altering the external dimensions. Unlike the standard C20 units, the C20F is fitted with air conditioning systems for both driver and passenger compartments. Visually, it can be distinguished by its smooth trolley subframes as opposed to the corrugated design seen on regular C20 trains.
The sole C20F trainset, numbered 2000, was originally named Incognito but was renamed Elvira in May 2012. This renaming coincided with the rechristening of set number 2012 to Estelle in celebration of Princess Estelle's baptism.