DB Regio will run the fully approved battery train with passengers on two separate routes. Deutsche Bahn (DB) and Alstom are set to begin a test service of a fully approved battery train in Germany. The Alstom-built Battery Electric Multiple Unit (BEMU) will commence revenue services with passengers onboard from next week in Baden-Württemberg. The pilot service will also be conducted in Bavaria from 5 February. DB’s regional transport subsidiary DB Regio will operate the train along the two routes.
DB Regio CEO Dr Jörg Sandvoss said: “Deutsche Bahn wants to be climate-neutral by 2040 and this first battery train in passenger service represents the next big step towards emission-free trains in Germany’s regional transport.
“With this test, DB Regio wants to gain practical experience in order to master these future technologies in operation and maintenance. The trial operation provides new technical and operational knowledge in handling this innovative climate-friendly drive technology.”