Cookie Consent by Free Privacy Policy website The ICE 4 – The new backbone of Deutsche Bahn's long-distance network
settembre 14, 2016 - SiemensGroup

The ICE 4 – The new backbone of Deutsche Bahn's long-distance network

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The train concept was designed to offer the greatest possible flexibility. On the basis of five car types, 24 trainset configurations are possible to meet the varying needs for top speed, route profiles and changing passenger capacity demands in the future. The prerequisite for the concept was the development of a power car that combines all traction components in one car. Six power cars, for example, are required for a twelve-car #ice4 with a top speed of 250 kilometers an hour.

In order to operate the train with its unique traction concept, a new electronic train control system was developed. Compared to conventional trains in which the controls of a number of cars are interconnected, each car of the #ice4 operates autonomously to enable the flexible combination of individual cars. All central train controls are located in the end cars. All cars are integrated into the train communication network and have controls that handle only the functions of the respective car.

The #ice4 is also impressive when it comes to energy efficiency. A twelve-car #ice4, for example, is around 100 tons lighter than a comparable ICE 1, yet still has a higher seating capacity. The train's aerodynamics were substantially improved with an innovative end car nose, an elegant transition from flat to raised roofline on the end cars, a continuous raised roof along all the trailer cars, and the covered bogies on the end cars. A new laser welding process makes numerous connecting elements unnecessary and considerably reduces the train's weight. The train's internally supported bogies also help reduce weight. Taken together, all these measures have resulted in energy savings of over 20 percent per passenger compared to similar trains.

Passengers await large panorama windows that flood the interior with light and provide a bright and friendly ambience. At the same time, the train's new interior lighting concept ensures a high and even level of illumination, even when the baggage racks are fully loaded. Advanced LED technology makes it possible to select the color of the lights in various lighting scenarios so the interior lighting can be adjusted in color and intensity to the time of day. The train's newly designed, ergonomically improved seats are especially comfortable on long trips. In contrast to previous-generation trains, the seatbacks can be adjusted without infringing on the space of the passenger sitting behind. All movements made by the seat adjustments are confined to the passenger's own space; the seatback shell itself does not move. 

In May 2011, Deutsche Bahn signed a framework agreement with #siemens for up to 300 trainsets. In the initial phase, 130 #ice4 trainsets were ordered. Beginning in 2017, they will gradually replace the Intercity and Eurocity fleets put into operation between 1971 and 1991. At a later time, it is planned to replace ICE 1 and ICE 2 vehicles. The #ice4 will then be responsible for roughly 70 percent of Deutsche Bahn's interurban transport revenue.

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