High-speed train operator, Flixtrain, intends to acquire up to 65 novel trains for expansion of services.
Munich-based travel provider Flix announces plans to significantly expand its long-distance rail offerings by ordering up to 65 new high-speed trains from Spanish manufacturer Talgo. The locomotives for this project will be provided by Siemens, as revealed by the company. Out of the total order, 30 trains have already been firmly ordered, with an option for an additional 35. The entire package, including maintenance of the trains, is estimated to cost Flix up to 2.4 billion euros, but the delivery date remains undetermined.
The new trains, based on the Talgo 230 technical platform with project-specific enhancements, will have speeds of up to 230 kilometers per hour and accessible, barrier-free entrances. FlixTrain, the rail subsidiary of Flix SE, currently operates only 13 trains, primarily provided by partner companies. With the acquisition of these new vehicles, the company aims to significantly increase its fleet presence in the competitive long-distance rail market, which is projected to grow by 45% in Germany alone by 2030 compared to 2021, and 4–5% annually in Europe.
Flix's CEO and co-founder, André Schwämmlein, shared that they are pursuing a long-term strategy with FlixTrain and intend to expand their offerings in the coming years, aiming not only to increase their market share but also to expand the market itself. The new German transport minister, Patrick Schnieder (CDU), commented on the investment, stating that it sends a strong signal for the rail market.
The new trains will offer barrier-free boarding, an innovation not currently available on any long-distance train in Germany. They are designed for operations across European countries, enabling rapid expansion and improved cross-border services. Traction will be provided by Siemens Vectron locomotives, known for their high reliability.
The German government has expressed its commitment to long-term investments in rail infrastructure and implementing reforms to the track access system, which Flix sees as vital for unlocking further private investment and innovation in the rail sector. The company is also working closely with the European Commission to foster European train travel and improve the overall offer for passengers.
With this ambitious plan, Flix aims to increase competition, improve service quality, and provide a better offer for customers, making long-distance rail travel more attractive. The company's asset-light business model and innovative technology platform position it well to adapt rapidly and scale across multiple markets.
Sources: ntv.de, DPA
- The following are the main categories of train that Flix aims to increase its fleet presence in: long-distance rail market, competition, European rail market.
- The expansion plan of Flix involves investments not only in trains but also in rail infrastructure and track access system, reflecting its ambition to foster private investment and innovation in the rail sector.
- The new trains, with their innovative features like barrier-free boarding and high-reliability locomotives, aim to provide a better offer for customers, redefining the quality of long-distance rail travel in Europe.
