Deutsche Bahn presents the design of its new long-distance train called ECx. Credit: Talgo.

German railway company Deutsche Bahn (DB) and Spanish rolling stock manufacturer Talgo have unveiled designs for long-distance trains.

With the working title of ECx, the trains are scheduled to enter service in 2023, replacing the older fleet of Intercity-1 vehicles.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Initially, the ECx trains will operate on the international route between Berlin and Amsterdam.

From 2024, the vehicles will be introduced on multiple domestic routes, including Westerland–Cologne, Westerland–Frankfurt–Karlsruhe, Westerland–Berlin and Oberstdorf–Cologne.

“The introduction of the trains is expected to reduce the journey time between Berlin and Amsterdam by nearly half an hour to 5 hours and 50 minutes.”

The introduction of the trains is expected to reduce the journey time between Berlin and Amsterdam by nearly half an hour to 5 hours and 50 minutes.

Last month, DB signed an agreement with Talgo for up to 100 trainsets, with an initial order of 23 units valuing €550m. Talgo secured the contract through a European public bidding procedure.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Each of the ECx trainsets will comprise one multi-system locomotive and 17 passenger cars. These passenger cars can also be coupled with a diesel locomotive.

Capable of running at a top speed of 230kph, the trains will feature 570 seats.

The ECx vehicles will be equipped with Wi-Fi systems and on-board entertainment to improve passenger experience.

They will also have real-time information monitors in entryways and seating areas.

The passengers can board these trains from standard platforms without the need for any stairs, thereby increasing convenience for wheelchairs users.

Furthermore, each of the ECx units will feature a separate area for families, with a play area for children.