Velaro Novo – shaping the future of high-speed transportation
The Velaro Novo is the train for everyone that wants a competitive edge in global high-speed and intercity transportation. The approach? A rethink: Focus on possibilities, not problems. The future train concept is impressive for its low maintenance costs, low energy consumption, and maximized availability – along with improved passenger comfort.
The Velaro Novo is the train for everyone that wants a competitive edge in global high-speed and intercity transportation. The approach? A rethink: Focus on possibilities, not problems. The future train concept is impressive for its low maintenance costs, low energy consumption, and maximized availability – along with improved passenger comfort.
Velaro Novo sets new standards for high-speed trains
Trains have rarely been as variable as the Velaro Novo. “Variable train” covers all the innovations that make each Velaro Novo unique, for operators and passengers alike. This includes maximizing the available space by 10 percent, and its high-speed range of 250km/h - 360 km/h.
The Velaro Novo’s lightweight body shell is based on the empty tube concept, meaning that there are no permanent installations inside the car and the interior can be furnished according to customer wishes and altered whenever requirements change. The cars have no underseat containers or electrical cabinets in their interior, and their length was enlarged to 28.75 m. Passengers can enjoy the maximum available space.
“Reduced total costs” covers all aspects that contribute to the overall cost efficiency of the Velaro Novo. A 20 percent reduction in investment costs and 30 percent lower maintenance and servicing costs make the Velaro Novo unique on the market when it comes to cost efficiency.
The Velaro Novo is about 15 percent lighter than previous Velaro generations. We were able to reduce the train’s weight by more than 70 tons. Maintenance effort is also reduced, thanks to the continuous collection of status data from the vehicle and the new housings. The Velaro Novo’s status can be analyzed in real time, and status-oriented maintenance can be scheduled to avoid downtime due to maintenance work.
Smart drive concepts are needed if a high-speed train is to meet the needs of future-proof mobility. “Intelligent motion” describes all the innovations that create an advantage for the Velaro Novo on the rails – from the latest measurement and sensor technology to the improvement of mechanical components.
The Velaro Novo has inbound bogies. With their inbound bearings, the running and traction bogies ensure smoother running, less wear and tear, and better protection from snow, ice and gravel.
“Aerodynamic excellence” describes all the innovations that help optimize the aerodynamics of the Velaro Novo. This includes full housing of the bogies, which will reduce energy consumption by well over 15 percent. These innovations are thus a core element in achieving an overall reduction in energy consumption by up to 30 percent.
The aerodynamic improvements also include optimized aerodynamics of the end cars. Their more streamlined front surface significantly reduces the train’s aerodynamic drag. Along with streamlined intercar gangways, they help cut energy consumption by ten percent. The high-voltage roof equipment is also completely covered, further improving the aerodynamics.
“Proven technology” means tried and tested innovation and years of experience: More than 1,000 Velaro trains in use around the world have covered more than 3 billion kilometers at speeds of up to 380 km/h. Since April 2018, all the innovations in the Velaro Novo have been tested using the #seeitnovo test car.
With the #seeitnovo test car a broad spectrum of innovations is being tested: the dynamic structural performance of the vehicle, the floor coverings, paint structure, and even the restrooms. The tests ensure that all innovations have been tested for robustness before put into operation with passengers.
Technical data
Behind the scenes of testing high-speed innovations
Shaping the future in rail around the globe
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