The fleet, the second-largest battery-electric train fleet in Germany, will carry a single design intended to stay consistent across future operator changes, as part of a wider regional branding strategy.
Nahverkehr Westfalen-Lippe (NWL), Rock Rail and Siemens Mobility have unveiled the design of 61 new Mireo Plus B battery-powered trains for the Northern Westphalia network. The trains will be manufactured by Siemens Mobility and financed and provided by Rock Rail. They are scheduled to gradually replace the current diesel fleet from December 2029.
The order covers an operating volume of around 7.1 million train kilometres per year. The partners describe it as the largest modernisation of regional rail transport in East Westphalia-Lippe and the Münsterland region. The fleet will be the second-largest battery-electric train fleet in Germany.
Consistent identity across operator changes
The new design forms part of a long-term, unified branding strategy for regional public transport in Westphalia-Lippe. The consistent look will be extended to other passenger touchpoints, which NWL says will provide greater recognition and easier orientation for passengers.
For the first time, NWL is the sole commissioning authority for a vehicle fleet of this scale, allowing the transport authority to develop a consistent design for the entire fleet. Until now, the appearance of regional trains has been shaped by the respective rail operator, which may change over a train’s service life. The new trains are dedicated to long-term service in the region, regardless of which operator runs the lines.
Christiane Auffermann, Executive Director of NWL, said: “As the transit authority, we want to view public transport much more through the eyes of our passengers. For us, that includes a reliable and familiar appearance - regardless of who operates the service. This advanced train fleet gives us the opportunity to make this commitment visible on such a scale for the first time.”
For us, that includes a reliable and familiar appearance - regardless of who operates the service.”
Long-term financing and 30-year service
Rock Rail is financing the 61 trains and providing them to NWL on a long-term basis for operation in the Northern Westphalia network. This keeps the fleet dedicated to the network and the region for many years, regardless of future operator changes.
Nick Watson, General Manager of Rock Rail Germany, said: “As a long-term rail vehicle financier, we are delighted to help provide a modern fleet that will serve passengers, neighboring towns and municipalities, and NWL for 30 years.”
Siemens Mobility to build two-car fleet
Siemens Mobility will manufacture the two-car Mireo Plus B trains. The order is among the largest contracts for battery-powered regional trains in Germany, reflecting growing demand for alternative drive technologies in rail transport.
Andre Rodenbeck, Executive Vice President Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility, said: “This significant order for our Mireo Plus B platform is an important contribution to the decarbonization of regional rail and the transition toward more sustainable mobility.”
Battery-electric operation and passenger features
The trains belong to the battery electric multiple unit (BEMU) category. They charge their batteries on sections equipped with overhead lines and use the stored power to operate on non-electrified sections of the network. According to the announcement, intelligent energy management systems allow them to run locally emission-free and significantly more quietly than conventional diesel multiple units. Energy generated during braking is recovered and stored in the batteries.
Features include Wi-Fi, power outlets, USB charging ports, spacious multipurpose areas, step-free boarding, and room for 18 bicycles and two wheelchairs.
No comments yet