ICE L with Step-Free Boarding Coming Soon to Germany

Deutsche Bahn has now confirmed that this innovative long-distance train with step-free boarding has received operational approval and will enter passenger service as planned by the end of 2024.

Launch Coinciding with December Timetable Change

Originally scheduled for autumn 2024, the introduction of this new train model was delayed due to supply chain issues at Spanish manufacturer Talgo and testing/approval process delays. Deutsche Bahn stated: “The new long-distance train has received approval and will enter passenger service as scheduled by year’s end.”

The first ICE L trains will gradually begin operating on domestic routes between Berlin and Cologne starting with the mid-December 2024 timetable change. Deutsche Bahn has ordered 79 of these new trains total, with the first four units entering service this year and nine more following in 2026.

Revolutionary Step-Free Boarding

The ICE L’s standout feature is its step-free boarding – the “L” stands for “Low Floor.” The carriages feature an exceptionally low floor height of just 76 cm above rail level. This design, familiar from modern trams and buses, enables nearly barrier-free access.

Deutsche Bahn touts the ICE L as the first fully accessible ICE train, offering significantly improved comfort for wheelchair users, families with strollers, travelers with heavy luggage, or bicycles. However, this requires platforms to meet the 76 cm height standard.

Technical Features and Deployment

Visually, the ICE L resembles a classic Intercity more than conventional ICE models. While its top speed of 230 km/h is slower than other ICE trains, it features innovative Talgo technology.

These articulated trains have particularly short car bodies sharing bogies between cars. Each carriage has just one axle that simultaneously supports the neighboring car. This design, similar to tilt technology, provides exceptionally stable and comfortable performance on curvy routes.

The ICE L will ultimately replace aging Intercity-1 trains, marking a significant modernization of Germany’s long-distance rail network. Its phased introduction beginning in December kicks off this fleet renewal.