German railway operator DB launched its latest version of Siemens ICE (InterCity Express) yesterday, Monday, 23 October, with its 17th ICE 3Neo being unveiled at a ceremony at Frankfurt Central Station.

Present at the launch were representatives of DB and Siemens, who witnessed the departure of the new train three months earlier than originally planned on its first passenger journey to Cologne.

The design of the latest ICE has been completely updated with several novel innovations. The seats have been completely redesigned to provide more comfort and better adjustment options.

The interior uses wood to accent the décor and the seats are upholstered in premium 85-percent wool.

Seats in the 1st class are coloured grey, 2nd class are coloured blue, and seats in the on-board restaurant are coloured burgundy. Passenger facilities include integrated tablet holders and coat hooks in each backrest.

The new ICE interior design sets the standard for DB’s new design language for long-distance travel for passengers’ complete end-to-end journey. As well as the ICE 3Neo, which is now the flagship of DB’s long-distance fleet, which extends to DB Travel Centres and DB Lounges.

DB is due to take delivery of 73 more ICE 3Neo trains by 2028. However, the ICE 3neo will not be the only type of train with the improved interior design as by the end of next year, DB will take delivery of the first of 79 ICE L trains that feature step-free passenger access.

With the introduction of the new ICE 3Neo and ICE L trains, the average age of DB’s ICE and Intercity trains will be 12 years, compared with the current average age of 18 years.

Dr. Michael Peterson, DB Board Member for Long Distance Passenger Transport, said “The ICE is a modern design icon and the flagship of our long-distance passenger fleet. Everyone knows the trains with the distinctive red stripe.

“Now, by introducing a new interior design, we are also taking long-distance travel to a new level of comfort. With specially developed seats, greater privacy, and a refined material and colour concept, we are offering our passengers a living room atmosphere and comfort at 300 km/h.”

Michael Peter, CEO Siemens Mobility, said “We delivered the first trains of the new ICE 3neo fleet in record time – and are now further stepping up the pace. Starting this November, a complete eight-car ICE 3Neo will roll out of our Krefeld plant every 16 days. With our delivery of 90 trains, we are supplying a large part of DB’s long-distance transport capacity. Our state-of-the-art technology and new design will significantly rejuvenate the ICE fleet.”