The ICx – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany’s public rail network. Siemens began the train’s first high-speed trials on September 25. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 km/h, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 km/h. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.
The ICx will be the backbone of the Deutsche Bahn’s future long-distance network. DB concluded a framework agreement with Siemens Mobility for up to 300 trainsets.
In the initial phase, 130 ICx-type trains have been ordered, and beginning in 2017 they will replace the Intercity and Eurocity fleets put into operation between 1971 and 1991. At a later time, it is planned to replace ICE 1 and ICE 2 vehicles. The ICx will then be responsible for roughly 70 percent of Deutsche Bahn’s interurban transport revenue.
The trial runs will test the train’s functions, above all the bogies but also the interaction with existing infrastructure, in particular control and safety systems, as well as the interaction between wheels and rails, and between the pantograph and the overhead contact line.
Photo: http://www.siemens.com
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