The 25-year availability-based contract calls for the supply and maintenance of rolling stock together with refuelling infrastructure for the fleet.

The trains will be used on RMV lines RB11 (Frankfurt Höchst - Bad Sodern) RB12 (Frankfurt Main Station - Königstein), RB 15 (Frankfurt Main Station - Brandoberndorf) and RB 16 (Freidrichsdorf - Friedberg). A contract to operate these services will be the subject of a separate competitive tender.

Fahma envisages around 26 trains will be required for the Taunus network, although the bidders are expected to specify the exact number of trains needed to maintain the proposed timetable for the four routes.

The trains are due to enter service in December 2022 and the contract will include an option for additional vehicles to expand the fleet if required.

In connection with the launch of the tender, Alstom’s Coradia iLint hydrogen multiple unit made a demonstration run from Wiesbaden to Frankfurt Höchst on April 13 with around 150 passengers on board. The event was organised by the Hessen State Energy Agency and the Hessen Fuel Cell Initiative.