VR Class Sm6
| Company type | Electric multiple unit trainset |
|---|---|
| Industry | Rail transport |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Headquarters | Helsinki , Finland |
Area served | Finland, Russia |
Key people | VR Group, Russian Railways (RZhD) |
| Products | High-speed tilting trains (Pendolino series) |
| Parent | VR Group (full ownership since post-Allegro service) |
VR Class Sm6
The Sm6 represents a high-speed tilting electric multiple unit trainset developed by Alstom within the New Pendolino series. A total of four sets were manufactured between 2009 and 2011, initially serving the now-discontinued Allegro route. This service was operated by Karelian Trains, a partnership involving Russian Railways (RZhD) and VR Group (Finnish Railways). Subsequently, VR Group assumed full ownership and intends to repurpose these trains for domestic routes starting in 2025 under the designation Pendolino Plus.
Although bearing an external resemblance to VR’s earlier Sm3 Pendolino models, the Sm6 is derived from the fourth-generation Pendolino Nuovo platform, incorporating considerable technological improvements. Each trainset is composed of seven coaches and is capable of reaching a top speed of .
From 2018 to 2019, VR FleetCare carried out refurbishments on all four Sm6 units to improve passenger amenities and modernize the interior design. Routine upkeep occurs mainly at the Ilmala depot near Helsinki, while specialized maintenance related to Russian railway systems takes place in Saint Petersburg.
Engineered for international service, the Sm6 units are equipped with dual-voltage capabilities (operating on Finnish 25 kV 50 Hz AC and Russian 3 kV DC electrification) and fitted with wheelsets that accommodate both Finnish (1524 mm) and Russian (1520 mm) track gauges. The inclusion of retractable door steps addresses platform height variations between Finland and Russia. Additionally, these trains integrate the distinct railway technical systems from both countries, effectively managing significant infrastructure disparities.