GERMAN Rail (DB) has ordered an additional 56 ICE L trains from Talgo for €1.4bn, under a framework contract signed in February 2019 for a maximum of 100 trains.
Combined with the 23 trains ordered in 2019 that are currently in production, this brings the total number of ICE L trains ordered from Talgo to 79.
The ICE L, or Intercity Express Low-Floor, is due to enter service from autumn 2024. It will be fully accessible due to the low floor height of the Talgo coaches, which will provide level boarding from the standard station platform height of 760mm above the top of the rail.
Each train comprises an electric locomotive, 16 coaches and a driving trailer car equipped with a driver’s cab. In each formation there is a bistro/cafeteria car as well as a coach specifically designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.
There are a total of 562 seats in each train, including 85 in first class. Talgo says that the new interior design scheme chosen for the ICE L combines functionality and durability with light and warm materials.
The ICE L is also fitted with window glass specially designed to improve signal reception for mobile devices.
Each ICE L formation, including the 19.7m locomotive, is 256m long and weighs 406 tonnes when empty. Maximum speed is 230km/h.
The train’s multi-system locomotive, developed entirely by Talgo, will enable the ICE L to be deployed on the Berlin - Amsterdam route, and later on services to Copenhagen and Vienna, as well as throughout Germany.
The Talgo coaches are also compatible with other locomotives, according to the manufacturer, including diesel types from other suppliers for operation on non-electrified lines.
“We are now accelerating the rejuvenation of our train fleet,” says Dr Michael Peterson, DB board member for long-distance passenger services.
“In this process, we are also relying on additional ICE L trains from Talgo. The highlight of these trains is the level boarding and alighting, which significantly increases comfort for all passengers.”
“The new order from DB is the largest in the company's history and demonstrates the European operator's confidence in the innovations that our trains will bring to the German market, improving accessibility, comfort, energy efficiency and reliability,” says Talgo president, Mr Carlos Palacio Oriol.
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