Deutsche Bahn AG (DB) and Siemens Mobility have agreed a partnership to develop their vision of a new-generation high-speed train.

During the first half of 2023 they will work together on a concept for the new train. Once that has been completed, another tender will be put in place in the second half of 2023 for the development, construction, and certification of the new fleet.

By working in partnership, the companies can address the specific needs of the operator and passengers with implementing state-of-the-art technologies. Joint working will nurture new ideas to make rail travel even more attractive, comfortable and convenient.

Deutsche Bahn aims to double the number of passengers using long-distance rail transport by 2030. This goal will be a major consideration in developing the new generation of trains. Among the criteria are single-deck trains with a maximum length of 400 meters, seating capacity for around 950 passengers, and a maximum speed of at least 300 km/h.

As well as providing enhanced passenger comfort, the new trains are expected to set new standards in energy efficiency and technical availability. Siemens Mobility is an industry leader in single-deck high-speed trains, and there are currently over 1,000 Siemens trains based on its high-speed Velaro platform in service around the world.

Albrecht Neumann, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility, said: “We are especially pleased that Siemens Mobility is one of two competing suppliers to be commissioned to develop a new concept for high-speed trains. This will give us the opportunity to continue our long-standing partnership with Deutsche Bahn. Even the form of cooperation is forward-looking: Rather than delivering a specific catalogue of requirements, the most important features of the new generation of ICE trains will be developed in close cooperation with the customer.