Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany’s public rail network. Siemens began the train’s first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

All in all, DB will be receiving 1,511 cars with which it can configure 50 12-car, 50 13-car and 37 7-car trainsets. DB will keep two end cars in reserve. The 12-car and 13-car trainsets will be operated in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The shorter 7-car trains are planned for use in Germany and Austria.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

All in all, DB will be receiving 1,511 cars with which it can configure 50 12-car, 50 13-car and 37 7-car trainsets. DB will keep two end cars in reserve. The 12-car and 13-car trainsets will be operated in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The shorter 7-car trains are planned for use in Germany and Austria.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

All in all, DB will be receiving 1,511 cars with which it can configure 50 12-car, 50 13-car and 37 7-car trainsets. DB will keep two end cars in reserve. The 12-car and 13-car trainsets will be operated in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The shorter 7-car trains are planned for use in Germany and Austria.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The Sibas PN railway automation system deployed in the ICE 4 comprises a combination of control units and modules that communicate with one another via the train bus. They are responsible for control and information tasks. In addition, the systems are integrated to provide vehicle diagnostics as well as maintenance and commissioning support.

The ICE 4 - the new backbone of Deutsche Bahn’s long-distance network

The trainset concept of the ICE 4 was designed to offer the greatest possible operational flexibility. On the basis of five car types, 24 trainset configurations are possible in order to meet the varying needs for passenger capacity, top speed and route profiles. The concept is made possible by the newly developed power cars and a new train control system.

Quality assurance for the ICE 4

Comprehensive quality control measures, beginning with the very first prototype and type tests all the way to a months-long introductory phase with two trains before the ICE 4 enters service, are designed to guarantee the reliability of the train's technology. Components and parts of the train, such as traction system, air conditioning and electronic door-locking systems underwent extensive tests. In the end, the ICE 4 was subjected to around 1,000 tests and detailed inspections before reaching serial production.

Greater energy efficiency through reduced weight and improved aerodynamics

Compared with the ICE 1, the ICE 4 uses over 20 percent less energy per passenger and achieves top marks in the mass-to-seat ratio (simulated energy consumption). This is achieved with innovations such as the combination of lightweight, internally supported bogies and weight-optimized traction bogies as well as a new laser welding technology that substantially reduces weight. As a result, the weight of a twelve-car trainset with a length of 346 meters was reduced by around 100 tons compared to an ICE 1 of similar length. A raised roofline the length of the train, an optimized nose design and a streamlined roof on the end cars improve the train's aerodynamics.

A larger and more spacious galley with bistro

The train's galley is generously dimensioned and has an open counter area where passengers can purchase drinks or snacks to take to their seats or consume in the bistro.

Each ICE 4 has a restaurant car

All ICE 4 trains will have a restaurant car offering a wide selection of dishes. Up to 22 guests can sit here on comfortable bench seats and enjoy the culinary specialties and onboard service. The number of seats in the restaurant is coordinated with the respective trainset configuration and can be flexibly adjusted according to need.

The ICE 4 is a true world champion in usable space

To provide more seating rows for the same train length as an ICE 3, the seats in the ICE 4 were developed with a kinematic mechanism that requires less space while at the same offering better ergonomics and providing comfort needs such as more legroom and continuous adjustability of the seat position. All movements made by the seat adjustments are confined to the passenger's own space; the seatback shell itself does not move and adjustments can be made without infringing on the space of the passenger sitting behind. The ergonomically improved seats are especially comfortable on long trips.

Relaxed travel for families

A special compartment for infants is provided for the youngest passengers; the separate room provides a place for privacy during trips with babies and infants. In addition, a bathroom with diaper-changing table is located right next to the compartment. The compartment offers sufficient space for a family's luggage including baby carriage. Seats in this compartment can be specifically reserved.

Relaxed travel for families

A special compartment for infants is provided for the youngest passengers; the separate room provides a place for privacy during trips with babies and infants. In addition, a bathroom with diaper-changing table is located right next to the compartment. The compartment offers sufficient space for a family's luggage including baby carriage. Seats in this compartment can be specifically reserved.

For the first time, it's possible to take a bike on an ICE

All seats have an integrated reservation sign on the headrest of the aisle seat. Seats are numbered with clear reference to position (window/aisle). The seat numbers are in regular script and in Braille. All seats have a power outlet. The 1st class seats also have a reading lamp.

Orientation for blind or sight-impaired passengers

All seats have an integrated reservation sign on the headrest of the aisle seat. Seats are numbered with clear reference to position (window/aisle). The seat numbers are in regular script and in Braille. All seats have a power outlet. The 1st class seats also have a reading lamp.

Tactile floor guidance system provides orientation

Floor indicators provide helpful orientation, particularly to blind and sight-impaired passengers. The indicators are installed wherever there is no other tactile and clearly recognizable guidance. In addition, a tactile floor guidance system in the ICE 4 helps sight-impaired and blind passengers find their way in the train.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The ICE 4 will be the backbone of the Deutsche Bahn's future long-distance network. In May 2011, the German national railway company is concluding a framework agreement with Siemens Mobility for up to 300 trainsets. It is the largest train contract that Siemens has ever won in its more than 160 years of corporate history.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The Sibas PN railway automation system deployed in the ICE 4 comprises a combination of control units and modules that communicate with one another via the train bus. They are responsible for control and information tasks. In addition, the systems are integrated to provide vehicle diagnostics as well as maintenance and commissioning support.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The ICE 4's drive concept is based on the so called Powercar concept. To achieve a high degree of modularity and therefore flexibility, the components of the traction system – basically transformer, traction converter, cooler, and four traction motors – are implemented in autonomic, powered identical cars (Powercars) and integrated beneath the cars. All trainset configurations – from five to fourteen cars – are possible within certain framework conditions.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The ICE 4's power bogie is a further development of the tried-and-tested SF 500 family. This robust bogie meets high demands for bearing loads and traction forces and has already been successfully in use in highspeed transport and double-decker trains.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany’s public rail network. Siemens began the train’s first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

All in all, DB will be receiving 1,511 cars with which it can configure 50 12-car, 50 13-car and 37 7-car trainsets. DB will keep two end cars in reserve. The 12-car and 13-car trainsets will be operated in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The shorter 7-car trains are planned for use in Germany and Austria.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

All in all, DB will be receiving 1,511 cars with which it can configure 50 12-car, 50 13-car and 37 7-car trainsets. DB will keep two end cars in reserve. The 12-car and 13-car trainsets will be operated in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The shorter 7-car trains are planned for use in Germany and Austria.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

All in all, DB will be receiving 1,511 cars with which it can configure 50 12-car, 50 13-car and 37 7-car trainsets. DB will keep two end cars in reserve. The 12-car and 13-car trainsets will be operated in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The shorter 7-car trains are planned for use in Germany and Austria.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The Sibas PN railway automation system deployed in the ICE 4 comprises a combination of control units and modules that communicate with one another via the train bus. They are responsible for control and information tasks. In addition, the systems are integrated to provide vehicle diagnostics as well as maintenance and commissioning support.

The ICE 4 - the new backbone of Deutsche Bahn’s long-distance network

The trainset concept of the ICE 4 was designed to offer the greatest possible operational flexibility. On the basis of five car types, 24 trainset configurations are possible in order to meet the varying needs for passenger capacity, top speed and route profiles. The concept is made possible by the newly developed power cars and a new train control system.

Quality assurance for the ICE 4

Comprehensive quality control measures, beginning with the very first prototype and type tests all the way to a months-long introductory phase with two trains before the ICE 4 enters service, are designed to guarantee the reliability of the train's technology. Components and parts of the train, such as traction system, air conditioning and electronic door-locking systems underwent extensive tests. In the end, the ICE 4 was subjected to around 1,000 tests and detailed inspections before reaching serial production.

Greater energy efficiency through reduced weight and improved aerodynamics

Compared with the ICE 1, the ICE 4 uses over 20 percent less energy per passenger and achieves top marks in the mass-to-seat ratio (simulated energy consumption). This is achieved with innovations such as the combination of lightweight, internally supported bogies and weight-optimized traction bogies as well as a new laser welding technology that substantially reduces weight. As a result, the weight of a twelve-car trainset with a length of 346 meters was reduced by around 100 tons compared to an ICE 1 of similar length. A raised roofline the length of the train, an optimized nose design and a streamlined roof on the end cars improve the train's aerodynamics.

A larger and more spacious galley with bistro

The train's galley is generously dimensioned and has an open counter area where passengers can purchase drinks or snacks to take to their seats or consume in the bistro.

Each ICE 4 has a restaurant car

All ICE 4 trains will have a restaurant car offering a wide selection of dishes. Up to 22 guests can sit here on comfortable bench seats and enjoy the culinary specialties and onboard service. The number of seats in the restaurant is coordinated with the respective trainset configuration and can be flexibly adjusted according to need.

The ICE 4 is a true world champion in usable space

To provide more seating rows for the same train length as an ICE 3, the seats in the ICE 4 were developed with a kinematic mechanism that requires less space while at the same offering better ergonomics and providing comfort needs such as more legroom and continuous adjustability of the seat position. All movements made by the seat adjustments are confined to the passenger's own space; the seatback shell itself does not move and adjustments can be made without infringing on the space of the passenger sitting behind. The ergonomically improved seats are especially comfortable on long trips.

Relaxed travel for families

A special compartment for infants is provided for the youngest passengers; the separate room provides a place for privacy during trips with babies and infants. In addition, a bathroom with diaper-changing table is located right next to the compartment. The compartment offers sufficient space for a family's luggage including baby carriage. Seats in this compartment can be specifically reserved.

Relaxed travel for families

A special compartment for infants is provided for the youngest passengers; the separate room provides a place for privacy during trips with babies and infants. In addition, a bathroom with diaper-changing table is located right next to the compartment. The compartment offers sufficient space for a family's luggage including baby carriage. Seats in this compartment can be specifically reserved.

For the first time, it's possible to take a bike on an ICE

All seats have an integrated reservation sign on the headrest of the aisle seat. Seats are numbered with clear reference to position (window/aisle). The seat numbers are in regular script and in Braille. All seats have a power outlet. The 1st class seats also have a reading lamp.

Orientation for blind or sight-impaired passengers

All seats have an integrated reservation sign on the headrest of the aisle seat. Seats are numbered with clear reference to position (window/aisle). The seat numbers are in regular script and in Braille. All seats have a power outlet. The 1st class seats also have a reading lamp.

Tactile floor guidance system provides orientation

Floor indicators provide helpful orientation, particularly to blind and sight-impaired passengers. The indicators are installed wherever there is no other tactile and clearly recognizable guidance. In addition, a tactile floor guidance system in the ICE 4 helps sight-impaired and blind passengers find their way in the train.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The ICE 4 will be the backbone of the Deutsche Bahn's future long-distance network. In May 2011, the German national railway company is concluding a framework agreement with Siemens Mobility for up to 300 trainsets. It is the largest train contract that Siemens has ever won in its more than 160 years of corporate history.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The Sibas PN railway automation system deployed in the ICE 4 comprises a combination of control units and modules that communicate with one another via the train bus. They are responsible for control and information tasks. In addition, the systems are integrated to provide vehicle diagnostics as well as maintenance and commissioning support.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The ICE 4's drive concept is based on the so called Powercar concept. To achieve a high degree of modularity and therefore flexibility, the components of the traction system – basically transformer, traction converter, cooler, and four traction motors – are implemented in autonomic, powered identical cars (Powercars) and integrated beneath the cars. All trainset configurations – from five to fourteen cars – are possible within certain framework conditions.

Largest order - Siemens is building ICE 4 trains for Deutsche Bahn

The ICE 4's power bogie is a further development of the tried-and-tested SF 500 family. This robust bogie meets high demands for bearing loads and traction forces and has already been successfully in use in highspeed transport and double-decker trains.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany's public rail network. Siemens began the train's first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.

ICE 4 underway in public rail network for first time

As of today, the ICE 4 – the new high-speed train from Siemens built for German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) – is underway in Germany’s public rail network. Siemens began the train’s first high-speed trials today. Beginning with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers an hour, speeds will be gradually increased to the top speed of 250 kilometers an hour. The test trials are being conducted by DB Systemtechnik.