The first CITYLINK train, which will provide uninterrupted rail service between Germany and France, has arrived in Saarbrücken. Operator Saarbahn Netz announced that the modern train, which will start a direct service between Saarbrücken, Sarreguemines and nearby regions, stands out with its ability to use both tram tracks and railway lines.
CITYLINK Project and Order Details
The supply contract was signed in January 2022. Stadler The company will produce a total of 504 trains for six transport operators in Germany and Austria. Saarbahn has ordered 28 CITYLINK trains and has the right to purchase a further 21 via an option agreement.
CITYLINK trains, Stadler's Spain Assembled at its facility in ValenciaThe manufacturer will also take care of the maintenance of each train throughout its service life.
Comprehensive Testing and Certification Process
CITYLINK, which will be exhibited at the InnoTrans trade fair in September 2024, is currently undergoing extensive testing and certification processes. These include dynamic tests in the Czech Republic, electromagnetic compatibility tests in Munich and climatic tests in Vienna.
In Saarbrücken, trains are operated by the German railway and city rail company EBO and BoStrab security standards is being tested for suitability. Since the route crosses the German-French border, CITYLINK also needs to be approved for service in France. The certification results will be applied to vehicles from other project participants, helping to reduce costs and speed up deployment.
This project constitutes an important step in cross-border public transport, while also setting a new standard in integration and compatibility in rail system technologies.
