ÖBB Orders 109 Double-Decker Trains €1.5 Billion Fleet

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) and manufacturer Stadler presented the first new-generation Cityjet double-decker train in Vienna, conducting a maiden run to Wiener Neustadt. The operator is investing approximately €1.5 billion in 109 of these high-capacity trains. The first units are scheduled to enter commercial service at the end of June 2024.

What Are the Technical Specifications?

The new fleet consists of electric multiple units delivered in two configurations for operational flexibility. The six-car version measures 160 meters and provides 591 seats, while the shorter four-car version is approximately 106 meters long with 371 seats. Both configurations have a maximum speed of 160 km/h and feature a low-floor design for accessible boarding, multifunctional zones for bicycles and strollers, and modern passenger amenities including Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a real-time information system. The cost per individual train set was not disclosed in the announcement.

Key Technical Data

Where Does This Technology Stand in the Market?

Stadler’s double-decker platform, part of its KISS family, competes directly with established products from major European manufacturers like Alstom and Siemens. The primary competitor is the Alstom Coradia Duplex and Coradia Stream HC (High Capacity) family, which is widely used across Europe, including in Germany and Luxembourg. Siemens’ Desiro HC platform offers a hybrid approach, combining single-deck end cars for accessibility with double-deck intermediate cars to maximize seating, a design chosen by operators like Germany’s DB Regio. While Stadler’s KISS platform is known for its lightweight aluminum construction and customization, its competitors leverage vast service networks and established supply chains. The market remains highly competitive; for instance, competitor Alstom’s stock valuation reflects market caution despite recent contract wins, indicating a challenging environment for all manufacturers (Source: simplywall.st, 2024).

Editor’s Analysis

This €1.5 billion acquisition is a key component of ÖBB’s larger €6.1 billion rolling stock investment plan through 2030, signaling a strategic focus on increasing capacity on Austria’s most congested commuter routes. The choice of double-decker trains for the eastern region addresses the critical need to move more passengers without increasing train frequency, which is often constrained by track capacity. This investment trend aligns with strong financial performance reported by rail infrastructure firms in the region, which points to sustained public and private commitment to expanding rail’s role in European mobility (Source: Ferrovial Q1 2026 Report).

FAQ

Q: Which specific routes will the new ÖBB double-decker trains serve first?
A: The first trains will enter service on the CJX 9 route from Vienna Floridsdorf to Wiener Neustadt and Payerbach-Reichenau at the end of June 2024. Subsequently, they will operate on the north-south corridor, including REX services from Znojmo/Retz and Břeclav/Bernhardsthal.

Q: What is the seating capacity of the new trains?
A: The six-car configuration offers approximately 591 seats, and the four-car version provides about 371 seats. The exact capacity can vary based on final interior layout.

Q: Is this ÖBB’s only major train purchase?
A: No, this procurement is part of a much larger program. ÖBB is investing a total of €6.1 billion to acquire approximately 330 new trains by 2030 to modernize its entire fleet.