Mat '74 (NS 2133)

Back in 1970, NS (Dutch Railways) introduced a strict distinction between local trains, express trains and Intercity services. For routes in the Randstad, with short distances between stops and high train frequencies, NS did not consider the Mat ’64 rolling stock to be suitable. It was heavy and slow to get up to speed. Consequently, the Stadsgewestelijk Materieel (SGM) was developed, better known as the Sprinter. The name refers to its ability to accelerate rapidly: from 0 to 50 km/h in 18 seconds.

The rolling stock was originally entirely yellow in colour, but was later repainted yellow–white–blue following refurbishment. This earned it the irreverent nickname ‘vlaflip’ (custard dessert). The Sprinter featured a fast, comfortable boarding system, numerous doors, a modern and ergonomically sound interior, and a minimum service life of 25 to 30 years. The first series of 15 Sprinters entered service in 1975 on the Rotterdam–Hoek van Holland route, the test section. From 20 May 1977, they made their debut on the Zoetermeer line.

In December 2021, NS bid a final farewell to the old Sprinters; they were succeeded by the New Generation Sprinter (SNG).