The order includes 44 three-car Mireo EMUs and 12 five-car Desiro HC double-deck EMUs, which are due to enter service with the start of the 2023 timetable in December 2022.

The trains are designated for service on the Ulm - Augsburg - Munich, Würzburg - Ansbach - Treuchtlingen - Donauwörth - Augsburg and Aalen - Nördlingen - Donauwörth routes.

Siemens says the trains are designed to meet projected traffic growth in the region. In particular, the double-deck trains planned for routes to and from Munich will provide a substantial increase in seating capacity.

The Mireo offers 216 seats, while the Desiro HC has 538 seats. To increase flexibility in capacity, up to four three-car Mireos can operate in multiple, or a maximum of two Mireos combined with a Desiro HC. If even more capacity is needed, two Desiro HC sets can be coupled.

The Mireo has capacity for 18 bicycles, while the Desiro HC can transport 45. All trains are barrier-free for passengers with limited mobility, with a multipurpose area located at each doorway. The trains also have a wheelchair lift onboard to provide easy access at stations with low platforms.

A real-time passenger information system shows arrival and departure times as well as connections at the respective stations. The trains will be equipped with high-frequency window glass developed to substantially improve mobile reception. In addition, the trains will be prepared for a possible later installation of passenger Wi-Fi.

“We are especially pleased to begin operating our fifth network in Germany - Lot 1 of the Augsburg networks,” says Go-Ahead Transport Germany CEO, Mr Stefan Krispin.

“This is yet another order for our two regional train platforms in our key home market,” says Siemens Mobility CEO, Ms Sabrina Soussan. “For the first time, we'll be delivering the trains so both types can be combined in operation. This way, the strengths of both train types can be optimised.”

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