ICE4 introduced on German test passenger services

by

GERMAN national operator DB introduced the first of its new ICE4 250km/h EMUs in October 2016 on a test passenger service basis.

Two sets from the seven now completed are assigned to two Hamburg to Munich (via Hannover/Würzburg) train pairs daily, although if unavailable the trains will be operated using earlier ICE1 Class 401s.

DB ICE4 Class 412 EMU No. 9005 at Hannover Hbf on March 30 with service ICE 786, the 13.40 from Munich to Hamburg. KEITH FENDER

The remaining five trains are in use for testing (e.g. approval type tests in Switzerland) and for training use for both onboard staff and maintenance personnel.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.

DB ordered 85 10-car and 45 seven-car 250km/h trains in 2011 from Siemens; the trains then known as ICx were designed to replace older ICE1 and loco-operated Intercity services.

In 2013, it was announced that the 10-car trains would be delivered as 12-car trains and 170 extra vehicles were added to the order.

Read more in the May issue of The RM – on sale now!

Article continues below…
Advert

 


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


Article Tags:

About the Author