Siemens Mobility has unveiled the first painted car body and exterior design for the new generation of the Nightjet trains for the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB).
The new ultra-modern trains will enter service near the end of 2022 and will first be used on connections from Austria and Germany to Italy. The first 13 trainsets have already been called up by ÖBB from a framework agreement with Siemens Mobility, and a further 20 trains are expected to be called up this year.
“In the fight against the climate crisis, Europe needs more climate-friendly mobility. A strong and extensive night train network is an important contribution here. This not only means additional cars for our fleet, but also more destinations and more night train lines. The Nightjet is the best option for traveling between major European cities,” Leonore Gewessler, Austria’s Minister for Climate Protection said.
The next-generation, seven-car Nightjet train consists of two coaches, three couchette cars, and two sleeping cars. Their design combines ultra-modern elements with a higher level of passenger comfort. The new couchette car concept also offers additional mini suites for single travelers that ensure a pleasant trip and relaxed arrival. Travel in the sleeping car will be even more comfortable since each of the standard and deluxe compartments has its own toilet and shower. The previously offered regular compartments will naturally still be available as well, with a new design.
A new feature of the coming Nightjet generation is its free WLAN service, which was previously available only on long-distance Railjet trains. During their trip, Nightjet passengers can surf on the ÖBB Railnet, stream contents, and access digital newspapers and magazines free of charge.
Barrier-free overnight travel will also be possible on the new Nightjets. Each of the trains will have a multifunctional car with a low-floor entrance, a barrier-free couchette compartment, and a barrier-free toilet.
ÖBB is investing EUR 500 million for the procurement of the future night trains in the coming years and can acquire 20 more Nightjets.
In August 2018, ÖBB and Siemens Mobility signed a framework agreement for the supply of 8 day trains and 13 night trains with a total of up to 700 passenger coaches. In addition, the new design of the Viaggio train was unveiled in June 2020.
ÖBB entered European night train business in 2016 and is constantly expanding this segment. “We are already the largest provider of night train service in Europe and our investment in new and ultra-modern trains will ensure that we can continue building on our pioneering role. By providing greater comfort and privacy, our new, state-of-the-art Nightjets will clearly and convincingly focus on meeting the needs of passengers,” Andreas Matthä, CEO of ÖBB said.
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