Austrian Railways (ÖBB) have expressed option to order 24 additional Desiro ML electric trains from Siemens. The order is part of a framework agreement signed with Siemens in 2010 which envisages the delivery of up to 200 such trains.
Prior to this additional order, ÖBB has ordered a total of 70 Siemens regional trains and 95 suburban trains for the S-Bahn network, all pertaining to the Desiro ML class. Deliveries for previous order will be completed at the middle of the year.
The additional order, for the 24 electric trains, will allow Austrian Railways to put off service all obsolete trains used mostly on Vienna’s S-Bahn network.
Delivery of the new trains, which will operate under the name “Cityjet”, is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2020.
“The Cityjet guarantees a comfortable travel experience throughout Austria. The train’s flexibility offers a wide range of applications. The Desiro ML can, for example, be converted to battery-hybrid technology and therefore also be used in the future on non-electrified rail lines,” said Sabrina Soussan, CEO of Siemens Mobility.
The train’s variable, low-floor seating landscape and generously designed entry and transition space offer attractive passenger comfort and convenience as well as about 22 percent more seats compared to the trains currently in service. Each seat is equipped with a reading lamp, electrical outlet and fold-out laptop table. The seats have adjustable seating surfaces, ergonomic headrests and armrests. The train is 75 meters long, has a top speed of 160 km/h and more powerful acceleration.
Regarding accessibility, the train sets new standards with its wide doors and entry areas, open and quiet transition spaces and stronger contrasting colors for the visually impaired. Comfortable low-floor doorways provide easy access without ramps at all 550-millimeter station platforms even for wheelchair users and passengers with baby carriages or bicycles. At lower station platforms in the region, sliding steps and a lift are provided on each side of the train. The S-Bahn trains have six doors on each side.
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