GERMAN Rail (DB) launched a tender on December 15 for a new generation of high-speed trains - already dubbed ICE5 by the German media - for introduction in the early 2030s. Bids are being sought for the first stage in the process and DB expects to award the contract in 2025.

DB plans a framework agreement for up to 95 trains. The first tranche will be for a maximum of 33 300km/h single-deck trains. Each train will be 400m long with 940 seats, making them longer, faster and with more seats than the latest 13-car, 918-seat, 265km/h ICE4 trains, which Siemens completed delivery of this year.

DB says that before the new generation of trains goes into service, a prototype will be tested in advance. Delivery from 2032 is planned with two pre-series trains in use from mid-2031. The first 33 trains will be delivered by 2034 with follow on orders at the rate of 14 trains per year during the 2030s. There will be a final opportunity to order optional trains in 2040.

The new ICE generation will set new standards for travel experience with new interior concepts and further innovations according to DB offering step free access for both 550mm and 760mm station platform heights found in Germany as well as new levels of energy efficiency and technical reliability.

DB says the new ICE fleet will replace older trains such as ICE 1 (built between 1989 and 1993) and ICE 3 (1998-2005) as well as expand the ICE fleet to meet growing demand and the planned introduction of the Deutschland Takt regular-interval national timetable from 2030.

DB is taking a new approach to the tender process. After an initial call for tenders, Alstom and Siemens Mobility, together with DB, each created an independent vehicle concept. DB says it is using the knowledge gained from this preliminary design phase for the tender by formulating ambitious, but at the same time achievable, manufacturer-neutral requirements.

The tender is open to all manufacturers other than those subject to international sanctions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. DB says the new generation of trains which will form the core of its fleet until the 2060s.

The deadline for receipt of requests to participate is January 22 2024, with submission of offers expected by February 2.

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