Dutch railway operator NS has presented a full-scale model of its new double-decker train, ordered from supplier CAF. The model offers a preview of both the exterior and interior, showcasing what passengers can expect when the trains enter service.
Roel Okhuijsen, Director of New Material at NS, highlighted the need to replace ageing double-deckers and prepare for future passenger growth. The new trains aim to offer a spacious and comfortable experience, catering to different travel preferences, whether passengers wish to work quietly or socialise. Production is set to begin in the second half of the year.
Features of the new NS double-decker
- Improved Accessibility – Single-deck sections at each end provide level boarding, making the train more accessible for wheelchair users and passengers with prams.
- Optimised Seating – First-class sections feature two seats on either side of the aisle, maximising capacity. New seating areas include high bar tables by the windows for laptop users and raised four-person seats with extra luggage space.
- Sustainability – The train incorporates renewable, used, and recycled materials. A “material passport” will document the origins of materials used, ensuring a circular approach to construction and future recycling.
- Capacity and Performance – The fleet will consist of 60 trains (30 with four carriages and 30 with six), providing around 30,000 seats. The train has a top speed of 160 km/h.
- Passenger Amenities – Features include a wheelchair-accessible toilet, clear signage for seating areas, power sockets, USB-C charging points, and digital screens displaying real-time travel information.
The design is based on feedback from over 600 passengers who tested interior concepts during the Dutch Design Week in 2018. The vision prioritises space, comfort, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, with wooden ceiling patterns and thoughtfully arranged seating. Train conductors and drivers also contributed to the design process.
The first of these next-generation double-deckers is expected to enter service in 2029.
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