Deutsche Bahn (DB) is bringing more comfort and reliability to the rails for travelers on cross-border traffic to Belgium and the Netherlands.
From June 15, 2024, only the modern ICE 3neo will be used on the routes from Frankfurt am Main via Cologne to Amsterdam and Brussels. This means that DB is fulfilling its promise six months earlier than originally planned to replace the aging predecessor models on the routes and thus significantly increase the reliability of journeys on these routes.
This was made possible thanks to the excellent cooperation with the manufacturer Siemens Mobility, the approval authorities and the European partner railways.
“We have delivered as promised. The ICE 3neo will be used earlier to travel to Amsterdam and Brussels, just in time for the start of the European Championships. This will directly benefit the many fans and international travelers who the ICE 3neo will now bring to Germany in a particularly comfortable and reliable manner!”, said Dr. Michael Peterson, DB Board Member for Long-Distance Passenger Transport.
As part of its Strong Rail strategy, DB is investing around 12 billion euros in modernizing its long-distance fleet by 2030. This will reduce the average age of long-distance trains from 18 to 12 years. This year, DB will receive a new ICE every three weeks.
Peterson continued: “With this rejuvenation of our fleet, we are ensuring greater reliability and comfort for our passengers. At the same time, expanding the fleet is a key lever for achieving the goals of Strong Rail and doubling the transport performance in long-distance rail passenger transport. Because those who travel by train protect the climate.”
More comfort with the ICE 3neo
Passengers have more space for luggage on the new trains. Each seat has a tablet holder and a power socket.
Special facilities have also been built for people with disabilities, such as a wheelchair lift.
The windows are also new, and can block out sunlight but allow the mobile phone signal to pass through better than before.
Since the 17th train, the ICE 3neo has been equipped with the new ICE interior design. It is characterized by numerous innovations: The completely newly developed seats are designed as a personal retreat, offer better adjustment options and thus even more comfort.
A harmonious design, modern materials such as wood decor and covers made of high-quality fabric with 85 percent wool content in nuanced colors determine the new appearance.
Warm gray tones are planned for the seat covers in 1st class, blue tones in 2nd class and burgundy red in the on-board restaurant.
Elements such as an integrated tablet holder or coat hooks in each backrest offer more functionality.
In total, DB has ordered 90 ICE 3neos from Siemens. Each of these ICE 3neo is technically suitable for use in Belgium and the Netherlands.
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