The first painted carriage body and exterior design for the new generation of the Nightjet train was recently presented by OBB and
Siemens Mobility in Vienna. The new trains will enter service near the end of 2022 and will first be used on connections from Austria and Germany to Italy.
The first 13 trains have already been called up by OBB from a ‘framework agreement’ with Siemens Mobility, and a further 20 trains are expected to be called up this year.
Leonore Gewessler, Austria’s Minister for Climate Protection, said: “In the fight against the climate crisis, Europe needs more climate-friendly mobility. A strong and extensive night train network is an important contribution here, which is why we will be investing around 500 million euros in the future of night trains in the coming years and can purchase 20 more Nightjets produced with Austrian added value.”
Andreas Matthä, OBB’s CEO, said: “The decision made in 2016 to enter the European night train business and steadily expand the night train network was absolutely right. We are already the largest provider of night train services in Europe and our investment in new and ultra-modern trains will ensure that we can continue building on our pioneering role.”
The next-generation seven-car Nightjet consists of two coaches, three couchette cars, and two sleeping cars. Siemens said: “Their design combines ultra-modern elements with an even higher level of passenger comfort.
“The new couchette car concept also offers additional mini-suites for single travellers, while travel in the sleeping car will be even more comfortable since each of the standard and deluxe compartments has its own toilet and shower.”