ÖBB has introduced the first of the new-generation Railjets from Siemens Mobility into operation, with plans to enhance its fleet by adding 19 more units by autumn 2028. The introduction of the initial 8 trainsets marks the deployment of these trains on the Vienna-Feldkirch route during the Easter holidays, expanding to include the Brenner line from April 8, where they will serve destinations between Munich and Bologna, including stops at Innsbruck and Bolzano, and an additional route between Munich and Innsbruck.
These trains, which are a product of Siemens Mobility, are part of an expansion due to the increased preference for train travel among passengers, attributed to its environmental and climate benefits. The Railjets are designed on the same platform as the new Nightjet trains and aim to provide a new level of rail travel comfort.
The newly introduced Railjet trains offer an array of features aimed at improving passenger experience. These include enhanced cellphone reception, which is reportedly 50 percent better due to optimally radio-permeable windowpanes, high- and low-floor entrances for easier access, spaces dedicated to bicycles and wheelchairs, and an on-board restaurant.
The trainsets consist of nine cars, excluding the locomotive, spanning approximately 240 meters in length and offering 532 seats across various classes including first-class with business sections, second-class (economy), and a multifunctional economy class car.
Technical advancements include high-tech lightweight bogies which are 30 percent lighter than traditional ones, reducing raw material usage and enhancing energy efficiency. The trains are equipped with innovative power distribution systems and a self-diagnosis system for maintenance efficiency. Moreover, features such as LED interior lighting, an air conditioning system with a heat pump, and fresh air ventilation regulated by CO2 levels, contribute to the sustainability and energy efficiency of these trains.
Passengers have the flexibility to choose from different seating arrangements such as compartments, open-plan cars, or raised seating areas. Quiet zones, family zones equipped with game board tables, and privacy-enhanced seat backrests are designed to cater to various passenger needs. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi service, a comprehensive passenger information system, adjustable interior lighting, and multiple charging options for electronic devices. For those with limited mobility, the trains offer barrier-free access and designated spaces.
