Go-Ahead Germany orders 56 regional trains from Siemens Mobility

Go-Ahead Verkehrsgesellschaft Deutschland GmbH has commissioned Siemens Mobility to deliver 56 regional multiple-unit trainsets.

The trains are planned for use on the electrified routes of the ‘Augsburg rail networks’ in southwestern Bavaria.

A total of 44 three-car Mireo electric trainsets and 12 five-car Desiro HC electric double-decker trains are to be delivered. Both types of trains can be combined, enabling the operator to flexibly adapt to changing passenger demand.

The order is worth approximately €400 million and passenger service with the new trains is scheduled to begin with the timetable change in December 2022.

“We are especially pleased to begin operating our fifth network in Germany – Lot 1 of the Augsburg networks. The state-of-the-art trains being supplied by our partner Siemens Mobility are an important building block for ensuring high-quality operations that will attract additional passengers to rail transport,” said Stefan Krispin, CEO of Go-Ahead Verkehrsgesellschaft Deutschland GmbH.

The trains are designated for service on the routes Ulm – Augsburg – Munich, Würzburg – Ansbach – Treuchtlingen – Donauwörth – Augsburg as well as Aalen – Nördlingen – Donauwörth. In particular, the double-decker trains planned for routes to and from Munich will provide a substantial increase in seating capacity.

“This is yet another order for our two regional train platforms in our key home market. 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 optimally utilised,” said Sabrina Soussan, CEO of Siemens Mobility.

The Mireo offers 216 seats and the Desiro HC 538. A multipurpose area is located at each car doorway; 18 bicycles can be transported in a Mireo and 45 in a Desiro HC. All trains are barrier-free for passengers with reduced mobility. The trains also have a lift on board in order to provide wheelchair users easy access at stations.

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