Sluggish Progress with Bahn's New ICE L Trains: A Closer Look
High-Speed Trains Welcome Their First New ICE Model
The much-anticipated delivery of the ICE L trains to Deutsche Bahn is a hot topic these days, but it's not all smooth sailing. Delays in production and potential adjustments to the original order have put a damper on expectations.
Initially, Talgo, the Spanish manufacturer, was expected to churn out a total of 79 units by the fall of 2024[1][3]. However, those hopes have dashed as the first deliveries are now expected to occur in the second half of 2025, with only a handful to arrive this year[2]. Rumors persist that Deutsche Bahn might even trim the order by 19 units, bringing the total down to 60 trainsets[3] due to these setbacks.
Deutsche Bahn's ambitious plan to invigorate their long-distance train fleet isn't unscathed by these delays. The ICE L trains, with their snazzy low-floor entrances, are a crucial component of this upgrade strategy.
In the broader spectrum, the ICE L trains aim to raise the bar in cross-border travel, similar to FlixTrain's recent order, which also utilizes the Talgo 230 platform[4]. Despite the challenges, Deutsche Bahn continues its mission to revamp its fleet with other models such as the ICE 4 and ICE 3 Neo[1], each contributing to enhanced reliability and passenger comfort.
In the meantime, long-distance train services could be adversely affected. The impact on passengers could manifest in the form of reduced seats in certain routes, potentially leading to crowded conditions[2]. We'll have to wait and see whether these newest additions to the fleet will live up to Deutsche Bahn's expectations and bring about the much-needed modernization.
References:[1] ntv.de[2] dpa[3] Railway Technology[4] Talgo Rail[5] FlixTrain Press Release
The delayed arrival of the ICE L trains, initially slated for 79 units by fall 2024, could potentially see a reduction to 60 trainsets due to production issues, impacting Deutsche Bahn's community policy and transportation services. Meanwhile, as a part of their finance strategy, Deutsche Bahn is also pursuing vocational training programs for their employees, ensuring a skilled workforce for the maintenance and operation of their growing fleet, which includes the ICE 4 and ICE 3 Neo in addition to the ICE L trains, with the latter aiming to set a new standard in cross-border vocational training and travel, similar to FlixTrain's recent order.
