ICE 4, the high-speed train for Deutsche Bahn
For flexibility and maximum availability in intercity and long-distance services
With the ICE 4 high-speed train, Siemens has implemented a new, flexible concept for Deutsche Bahn: All the cars of the ICE 4 function as independent and autonomous units. Depending on requirements, you can assemble from five to fourteen part trains, giving you the right train for each route. The ICE 4 is thus setting new standards for intercity and long-distance services.
The backbone of Deutsche Bahn’s long-distance network
The ICE 4 inaugurates a new era in intercity and long-distance services. In May 2011, Siemens Mobility concluded a framework agreement with Deutsche Bahn for up to 300 trainsets. In the initial phase, 130 ICE 4-type trains were ordered. The first trains have been in trial operation since early 2017 and will gradually replace the Intercity and Eurocity fleets built between 1971 and 1991. ICE 1 and ICE 2 vehicles will be replaced at a later time. The ICE 4 will then be responsible for roughly 70 percent of Deutsche Bahn’s long distance transport revenue.Flexible vehicle to meet the highest requirements
The ICE 4 is setting new standards in intercity traffic. Together with Bombardier, Siemens has developed a unique concept that can be individually adapted to various requirements. The modular drive concept is based on independent power cars with identical traction technology for greater flexibility. Numerous reliable, redundant systems ensure maximum availability in operation.
The ICE 4 version for Deutsche Bahn marks a successful milestone on the path to future long-distance services. Various configuration options permit a variety of operational options. Usable floor space is optimally configured: In only seven cars, the ICE 4 can comfortably accommodate up to 456 seats in a 200 meter long train.
The individual steel-bodied cars have been lengthened to 28 meters, thereby reducing the number of intercar gangways, components, and bogies while increasing car capacity. The installation of fewer wearing components also reduces maintenance costs.
Innovative power car concept
The ICE 4’s drive is based on the power car concept. A power car combines an entire traction system in one car, including the transformer, traction converter, traction cooling unit, and four traction motors. The combination of power cars and unpowered cars guarantees extreme modularity and flexibility and more freedom in configuring trainsets.
All trainset configurations – from five to fourteen cars – are possible within certain framework conditions. This means that the train can be optimally adapted to specific transport tasks in terms of acceleration, speed, and passenger capacity. Even double traction is feasible, with two seven-part trainsets forming a 400-meter trainset as per TSI. Other configurations are also conceivable – for example, modifying the ratio of first-class to second-class seats.
Technical data
Configuring the large usable floor space is easy and straightforward thanks to the empty tube principle. The entire passenger area has a modular layout, so that all the furnishings can be varied at will. Changes to accommodate new requirements can be quickly and easily implemented.
All passenger areas are equipped for easy reconfiguration, thus offering maximum flexibility. They’re also specially designed for railway applications, are stain-resistant, easy to clean, and conform to fire, health, and environmental standards. Electronics cabinets have been largely eliminated from the interior, and the functional areas have been combined spatially.
Seating comfort
The ICE 4 has a roomy seating design. It also uses new seats with innovative ergonomics and seat kinematics. The seats, mounted on C-rails along which they can be moved, have all the passenger conveniences. In addition to reservation indicators and electrical outlets, first-class seats also offer passengers reading lamps.
Lighting concept
The large panoramic windows (1,924 mm x 780 mm) ensure a well-lit interior and a bright, friendly atmosphere. The new daylight detection lighting concept provides the passenger area with bright, uniform illumination even when the luggage racks are full. As in airplanes, an illuminated strip integrated into the floor guides passengers to the exit.
Accessibility
The ICE 4 conforms to the latest TSI PRM standards: The multifunction car provides an area for wheelchairs in direct proximity to a wheelchair lift and roomy universal restroom. This conforms to TSI PRM standards and makes travel more enjoyable for passengers with limited mobility.
Galley
The galley area with its glass case is perfectly matched to the ICE 4’s interior design concept. The number of seats in the restaurant is based on the particular type of train and can be flexibly adapted depending on requirements.
Intelligent passenger information
The passenger information system keeps passengers informed – both visually and audibly – of the itinerary and the available services. Depending on the region, texts and speech can be output in different languages (e.g. German, English, and French). The ICE 4 is equipped for GSM mobile phone and mobile Internet access.
Despite its high seating capacity, the ICE 4 is relatively lightweight, with a superior weight-to-seat ratio: Thanks to its modularity, the trains can be configured with as few components as possible. The combined use of lightweight trailing bogies with inside bearings and weight-optimized power bogies, as well as the further refinement of the aerodynamic design, help reduce energy consumption, and thus support ecofriendly travel.
The ICE 4 is perfectly suited to international operation. The basic configurations are designed for use in Germany and Austria, and the twelve-car trains can also be used in Switzerland. Trains for other European countries (Netherlands, Denmark, France, Luxemburg, Poland, Czech Republic, and Italy) are available on request.
