Velaro Novo
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 to solve current and future challenges facing the mobility sector. The result is a train that offers a new perspective on the world of high-speed and intercity transportation. A train that combines proven technology…

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 to solve current and future challenges facing the mobility sector. The result is a train that offers a new perspective on the world of high-speed and intercity transportation. A train that combines proven technology…
Shaping the future of mobility with a new mindset
Setting standards with innovations that look at the entire system
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 280km/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. During a two-year period, it will travel a total of 100,000 kilometers.
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.
Discover all facts and figures at a glance.
Always up to date
#seeitnovo test car spotted in Hamburg
The #seeitnovo test car recently began continuous operation in Hamburg. But not a full-size version: Instead, a miniature model at a scale of 1:87 of the test car has been making its rounds on the tracks at the Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway exhibition. Like its larger counterpart – which has been undergoing test runs throughout Germany since April 2018 – the model railway version is now also being put to the test. Because all possible conditions have to be taken into account to ensure that the test is comprehensive, it was essential to include the 15.4 km-long track at the Miniatur Wunderland. Enjoy a new perspective of high-speed transport and visit the Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg to discover the test car in action. Also be sure to share your images with @SiemensMobility and #seeitnovo on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.
Expertise as the basis for a successful concept: interviews with the Velaro Novo experts

The American Pioneer 220: High speed rail for the U.S.
American Pioneer, USA, Brightline West
- The most accessible high-speed rail vehicle on the market, ensuring that passengers in wheelchairs can seamlessly move from car to car
- Featuring a new party car for optimal comfort – making high-speed rail an unparalleled experience
- Effortlessly climbing steep grades due to distributed traction, getting from SoCal to Las Vegas in under 2 hours



