Berlin's subway system won't see new trains until 2031 upon the conclusion of the current contract
The Berlin S-Bahn network is currently undergoing a significant renewal, with several key players involved in the modernisation process.
DB InfraGO has been appointed as the infrastructure operator, while Windhoff and Hitachi Rail are set to deliver up to 20 low-emission track maintenance vehicles, up to 15 middle cars specifically for the Berlin S-Bahn network, and a new digital dispatching system, respectively.
However, the renewal process has not been without its challenges. Potential delays and changes have been indicated due to governmental procurement scrutiny and appropriation changes, leading to extended timelines and ongoing official coordination to manage construction impact and timing. The overall modernization timetable has been adjusted from an initial completion target of 2030 to a more balanced implementation by 2036.
The procurement process for the S-Bahn network has been running for almost a decade, and the states of Berlin and Brandenburg are expected to announce the successful bidders for the operation and supply of vehicles for two-thirds of the Berlin S-Bahn network by September 1st.
Alstom, a French railway technology company, is expected to be the only losing bidder, as they have only submitted an offer for the supply of vehicles. Alstom has initiated a procedure with the Berlin State Procurement Chamber and later the Berlin Regional Court due to feeling disadvantaged, which could potentially delay the process further.
The SPD and Left parties have advocated for a unified operator for the S-Bahn network, with DB's subsidiary S-Bahn Berlin GmbH being the likely current operator of the North-South lines and East-West lines through the city tunnel and city railway. If Alstom's legal action delays the process, the plan to have the first operational trains by 2031 may be unrealistic.
The tendering process for the Berlin S-Bahn network has had its deadlines postponed more than two dozen times since its start in May 2016. The Greens have expressed a desire for increased competition for S-Bahn Berlin GmbH, and Werner Graf, the Berlin Green Party's top candidate for the 2026 state election, has expressed self-criticism about the prolonged procurement process.
Despite the challenges, it's worth noting that S-Bahn Berlin GmbH has a balanced workforce, and many young people are replacing those leaving due to age. Additionally, some train drivers from S-Bahn Berlin GmbH have been loaned out to DB Regio in Frankfurt am Main on a voluntary basis due to the delay in commissioning the S15 to the main station.
The tendering process for the supply and operation of up to 1400 vehicles for the ten lines is likely to be won by the consortium of Siemens and Stadler Rail. The supplier of up to 20 low-emission track maintenance vehicles and up to 15 middle cars specifically for the Berlin S-Bahn network is likely to be Windhoff.
In conclusion, the Berlin S-Bahn network renewal is a complex process with multiple players and challenges. Despite the delays and legal issues, the modernisation is ongoing, and the first operational trains are expected to be in service by 2031, subject to the resolution of ongoing legal matters.
- The modernization of the Berlin S-Bahn network involves various players from different industries, such as DB InfraGO, Windhoff, and Hitachi Rail, which operate in infrastructure, transportation, and technology respectively.
- The business sector, including but not limited to finance, manufacturing, and insurance, is also significantly involved, as the procuring states of Berlin and Brandenburg have sought bids from companies like Alstom, Siemens, and Stadler Rail for the operation and vehicle supply of the S-Bahn network.
- The renewal process consists of various career opportunities, with several positions available in the fields of business, engineering, and operations management, particularly within the companies involved in the modernization.
- As the tendering process for the renewal involves numerous parties and potential legal proceedings, the public-transit sector, including authorities and other political groups, plays a key role in ensuring a transparent and timely selection process, maintaining the interests of the citizens and the city's future transportation needs.
