In recent years, Russian Railways has been undertaking extensive modernization of its rolling stock, driven by both the pursuit of import substitution and the objective of enhancing passenger service quality and convenience. One of the principal initiatives within this program has been the development and deployment of the fully Russian electric multiple unit Finist—a modernized, technologically sophisticated train engineered to address current passenger requirements and now extensively operating on routes from suburban lines to interregional corridors.
The name “Finist” originates from Russian folklore, denoting the legendary heroic firebird that embodies rebirth, agility, and power. The name was chosen via a public poll conducted on the official Russian Railways website, involving tens of thousands of participants. This decision highlighted the shift from foreign platforms to a completely domestic product, which has emerged as a new emblem of Russian railway engineering.
From Lastochka to Finist: The Historical Roots of the Platform
Prior to the introduction of Finist, Russian Railways extensively operated the Lastochka electric trains, which were based on the German Siemens Desiro platform. Introduced in the 2010s, these trains operated on suburban and interregional routes and gained recognition for their speed, reliability, and passenger convenience, while being tailored to Russian climatic and operational requirements.
However, as a result of sanctions pressures and Siemens’ withdrawal from the Russian market, providing long-term support for foreign technologies and components became progressively more challenging. In response, Russian manufacturers—mainly Sinara Transport Machines and the Ural Locomotives plant—initiated a domestic development program using the ES104 platform, incorporating entirely Russian traction equipment and components.
The aim was not partial localization but complete import substitution, with the proportion of domestically manufactured components nearing 100 percent. As a consequence, by the end of 2023, the first Finist electric trains started operation, officially substituting the foreign-derived Lastochka within the Russian Railways fleet.
Design and Technical Specifications
The Finist electric train is built on the ES104 platform, featuring a modern five-car configuration with a higher capacity of approximately 416 passenger seats. This figure exceeds those of its predecessors. Seating is organized in a three-and-two configuration, with no face-to-face arrangements, aligning with modern standards for passenger comfort and interior mobility.
The trainset includes three lavatory modules, representing an increase of one compared to the Lastochka. Each seat is fitted with USB charging outlets, and the climate control systems ensure consistent temperature regulation throughout each vehicle. The train additionally includes elevators and designated areas for passengers with limited mobility, thereby substantially enhancing accessibility. Expanded stowage facilities accommodate the changing requirements of contemporary travelers.
The maximum designed speed of the train is 160 km/h, rendering it appropriate for high-speed suburban and interregional operations. This performance positions Finist as a competitive modern EMU for medium-distance routes.
In addition to the conventional ES104 version, testing has commenced on the ES105 Finist, a dual-system variant designed to operate on both AC and DC electrified lines. This considerably enhances operational flexibility, especially on routes featuring diverse power systems.
Fleet Introduction and Expansion
The initial Finist trains began operation on the Sverdlovsk Railway, where they replaced outdated rail stock on suburban routes, including services connecting Yekaterinburg and Kamensk-Uralsky. Deployment rapidly increased, and by the end of 2024, Russian Railways had acquired sixteen trainsets, with further deliveries scheduled for subsequent quarters.
Finist has also demonstrated its capabilities on interregional routes. One prominent example is the Yekaterinburg–Kurgan service, wherein the train functions under specified interregional numbers, demonstrating its capacity to serve extended routes and accommodate diverse passenger requirements.
Looking forwards, Russian Railways intends to acquire further Finist trainsets in 2025 and 2026, encompassing both the ES104 and ES105 variants. These trains are anticipated to be distributed to various regions nationwide, including Nizhny Novgorod, Chelyabinsk, Yaroslavl, Leningrad, Rostov, Primorsky, and Altai, as well as Bashkortostan and Dagestan.
Passenger Comfort and Travel Experience
The Finist initiative underscores not only technical autonomy but also a design philosophy centered on passenger experience. Travel aboard Finist provides a notably modern experience, consistent with current standards of comfort and convenience. Passengers enjoy more spacious accommodations, refined interior ergonomics, and upgraded onboard amenities.
Special emphasis has been placed on ensuring accessibility. The provision of elevators, designated wheelchair areas, and specialized amenities guarantees that passengers with limited mobility can travel more comfortably and with enhanced dignity. This approach exemplifies wider tendencies in inclusive transportation planning, particularly significant for extensive metropolitan regions and long-haul regional routes.
Future Progress and Innovation
The development of the Finist platform extends beyond traditional electric train variants. According to Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade and representatives of the railway industry, efforts are currently in progress to develop an autonomous (driverless) version of Finist, with key development milestones anticipated to be achieved by 2025. This initiative signifies an important advancement in the digitalization and automation of passenger rail transportation.
Simultaneously, engineers are examining potential modifications that could include hybrid power systems, enhanced onboard autonomy, and solutions for operation on partially or non-electrified routes. These innovations aim to improve the platform’s operational capabilities and diminish reliance on infrastructure.
Strategic Significance for the Russian Economy
The introduction of Finist signifies more than just a fleet enhancement—it constitutes a strategic industrial initiative dedicated to bolstering domestic engineering expertise and decreasing dependence on foreign technologies. The withdrawal of international suppliers expedited the creation of a completely autonomous platform, showcasing the ability of Russian industry to adapt to external challenges.
From an economic standpoint, the Finist program promotes specialized job opportunities, strengthens domestic supply chains, and advances technological expertise in railway engineering. Over the long term, this enhances the resilience and sustainability of Russia’s industrial infrastructure.
Final Remarks
The Finist electric train has become a new emblem of Russian railway development—a project that integrates technological modernization, passenger convenience, and strategic industrial sovereignty. Serving both suburban and interregional routes, Finist not only satisfies existing transportation requirements but also establishes the groundwork for future developments, including autonomous railway operations. As its fleet grows and its deployment extends, Finist is positioned to become a key component of Russia’s passenger rail network for many years ahead.