The contract was awarded following a European-wide tender and will start from December 12 2021. The contract will run until December 13 2025, and includes 1.571 million train-km per year, up from 1.484 million train-km per year in the current contract.
The contract includes an option for an extension, as well as a clause allowing Rhineland Local Transport to shorten the contract as some lines are due to be electrified.
Under the new contract, services will be operated by two-car class 643.2 Talent. The trains will be modernised externally and internally, including upholstered seats, USB plugs, Wi-Fi and passenger information screens. A conductor will also be introduced on services after 19.00 in an effort to make services more punctual.
