More and more people want their own compartment when they travel at night, so our 1st class carriages are not enough, says Niclas Härenstam, press manager at SJ.

Travel by night train has increased significantly in the last five years. Occupancy on the Malmö – Stockholm route has increased by around 100 percent and on the Gothenburg – Stockholm – Umeå – Luleå – Kiruna – Narvik route by around 25 percent.

– Many companies are steering more towards more sustainable travel, and night trains are a good alternative to flights and hotels. But more and more private individuals are also choosing to travel in an environmentally friendly way, says Niclas Härenstam.

Most people want their own compartment for themselves or for their traveling companions. This has led to the 1st class sleeper cars often being fully booked first while there is still room in 2nd class. Now it is possible to book a separate compartment for a single traveler regardless of whether they are traveling in first or second class.

As travel is increasing, SJ has decided to refurbish all of its night carriages. This will involve a review and replacement of technical equipment and a complete interior refresh with new colours, carpets, fabrics and materials. A total of 58 carriages will be refurbished, which is an investment of SEK 150 million. The first carriage is expected to enter service early next year.

The night trains that run in upper Norrland are owned by the Swedish Transport Administration, which is also planning an upgrade.

– With upgraded carriages, traveling by night train will become even more attractive. SJ is one of the few railway companies in Europe that is investing in night trains, which we believe have their natural place in an elongated country like Sweden, says Niclas Härenstam.