Regional rail in Greater Berlin to be modernized thanks to EIB loan

Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn GmbH will receive funding for new trains

The regional train in Berlin is set for a major modernization, announced the European Investment Bank (EIB). Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn GmbH, which provides transport services on behalf of the federal states of Berlin, Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, will be provided with the necessary funding to acquire new trains, which are more comfortable and better suited to passengers’ needs. The EU bank will make 185 million euros available in the form of a lease given by DAL Deutsche Anlagen-Leasing (large-volume investment company in Germany) for the rolling stock of the German railway operator.

More spacious and comfortable travel in the region of Berlin

By the end of 2022, 21 six-car “Desiro HC” trains are expected to enter service on the RE1 regional express line linking Magdeburg with Cottbus via Berlin and Frankfurt (Oder), reads a press release by EIB. The new trains will have more space for bicycles, prams, wheelchairs, as well as accessible toilets in each carriage. What is more, for the convenience of passengers, free wireless network (WIFI) will be available and the doors will be wider, so as to ensure faster boarding process.

“This financing for new trains will give a major boost to the modernisation and development of regional rail in Greater Berlin. At the EU bank, we are convinced that a well-functioning rail network with good connections and offering enhanced comfort for passengers can make a vital contribution to reducing the number of cars on the roads and in this way lower pollution and mitigate climate change”, explained EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle, responsible for EFSI and operations in Germany.

The European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), which is essential for the implementation of Investment Plan for Europe, known as the Juncker Plan, provides guarantee for the loan, given by EIB. The strategic financial initiative supported jointly by the Commission and the EU bank aims to improve the competitiveness of European economy.