DB announced last month that it had selected Talgo for a framework contract to supply up to 100 trains, which have been given the working title of ‘ECx’, with an initial order for 23 trains worth €550m. DB says it has deliberately opted for a proven vehicle platform in order to optimise reliability through proven components and minimise lead times for the fleet.
First class interior.
The locomotives and coaches will be introduced from December 2023, initially on a two-hourly Amsterdam - Berlin service, where they will reduce journey times by around 30 minutes to 5h 50min by eliminating locomotive changes at the Dutch-German border.
From summer 2024 the 230km/h trains will also enter services on domestic routes including Westerland - Cologne, Westerland - Frankfurt - Karlsruhe, Westerland - Berlin and Oberstdorf - Cologne.
Wheelchair spaces will feature height-adjustable tables.
Each 255m-long set is formed of one multi-system electric locomotive and 17 coaches seating a total of 570 passengers including 485 in second class and 85 in first. DB says the trains will operate with diesel locomotives on non-electrified routes.
Bordbistro car.
The trains will feature stepless entry, with an entry floor height of 760mm, three wheelchair spaces with height-adjustable tables, a tactile guidance system with Braille signage, racks for up to eight bicycles, and storage areas for sports equipment. There will also be intelligent saloon lighting, passenger Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment, a children’s play area, a Bordbistro restaurant car, and a real-time passenger information system.
Traction will be provided by Talgo multi-system locomotives.
The acquisition of the ‘ECx’ trains is part of DB’s plan to expand its long distance fleet from 273 to 408 trains by 2025.
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