Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn (NEB), the rail operator of Berlin metropolitan region awarded Siemens Mobility a contract for the supply of 31 two-car Mireo Plus B trains replacing the entire diesel fleet operating on all ten lines of the East Brandenburg rail network.
The federal states of Berlin and Brandenburg are responsible for planning and financing regional rail passenger service in the VBB region.
The first battery-electric emission-free regional trains for Berlin will enter operation in 2024 along with an improved and expanded timetable.
“The use of environmentally friendly propulsion systems in public transport marks a milestone in the technical transition taking place in the rail sector. As the first battery-electric, multiple-unit train in the VBB network, the Mireo Plus B provides real added value in terms of climate compatibility and economy compared to the trains operating with combustion engines currently in use,” Guido Beermann, Minister for Transport for the State of Brandenburg said.
The introduction of Mireo Plus B trains will reduce the annual consumption of diesel fuel by around 4.4 million liters in the East Brandenburg network. The new trains will also eliminate local CO2 emissions and, depending on the electricity mix, also cut supra-regional emissions by roughly 11,500 tonnes per year. At the same time, they will significantly reduce fine dust emissions.
The battery-hybrid train draws its energy from the overhead contact line. On non-electrified sections of the network’s routes, lithium-ion batteries – previously charged on the electrified sections – provide the train’s power supply. Recovered braking energy is also used for powering the train. The two-car train has a battery-electric range of more than 90 kilometers.
The new trains will provide additional passenger-oriented services with regard to both equipment and service standards. The train cars are equipped with three doors on each side, enabling passengers in wheelchairs or with buggies to board and exit easier, even on lower platforms. Three doors on each car side as well as new navigation system in the train ensure that passenger interchanges at stations are fast, uncomplicated and, above all, barrier-free.
The passengers will benefit 128 seats and twelve spaces for bicycles, wheelchairs, and buggies. Two or more trainsets can be coupled and operated as so-called double or multiple units to provide additional seating capacity.
The new trains will provide free WiFi access, a real-time passenger information system, and a specially designated family area. Around 60 electrical sockets are evenly distributed throughout the two cars, as well as USB charging ports and locations for inductive charging.
“With the Mireo Plus B from Siemens, we have a high-performance, highly efficient and innovative train in terms of performance, range and equipment, and one that’s especially suitable for the partially electrified regional lines of the East Brandenburg network,” Detlef Bröcker, Managing Director of NEB said.
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