After more than a year of delays, it’s official: the ICE L will be running on German tracks before the end of 2025. The ICE L Zulassung (approval) has now been granted, and Deutsche Bahn has announced that the first four trains will be in service from mid-December—initially on the Berlin–Cologne route.
What Makes the ICE L Special?
The ICE L Talgo is the first long-distance train in Germany to feature a completely step-free boarding system. The “L” stands for “Low Floor,” designed to make boarding easier for passengers with reduced mobility. This concept is not only barrier-free but also represents a future-oriented approach to comfort in long-distance rail travel.
The new model is built by Spanish manufacturer Talgo, from which Deutsche Bahn has ordered a total of 79 trains. Originally, the service was scheduled to begin in autumn 2024, but supply chain issues and delays in testing and the approval process pushed back the launch date.
Technical Details and Passenger Comfort
The ICE L can reach speeds of up to 230 km/h—slightly slower than other ICE models, but it stands out with a fresh design and a passenger-friendly concept. The train cars are shorter than those of traditional ICEs, giving the ICE L Talgo a look closer to a modern Intercity train.
Inside, Deutsche Bahn has opted for warm, home-like materials and lighting that adapts to the time of day, aiming to create a “pleasant sense of space.” The train features mobile signal-permeable windows to improve reception for passengers. Every seat comes with a large folding table and a holder for tablets or smartphones.
Public Presentation in October
The ICE L Zulassung will be officially celebrated on October 17, when Deutsche Bahn unveils the train to the public. Regular passenger services are set to start in December. Over time, the ICE L Talgo will replace the aging Intercity-1 fleet, bringing a modern and more accessible experience to long-distance travelers.
With this step, Deutsche Bahn is not only committing to barrier-free accessibility but also refreshing its brand image in the international rail sector. Spain has long been recognized for its innovative Talgo trains, and now Germany is bringing this proven technology into everyday operations.
Why This Matters for Passengers and the Rail Network
The arrival of the ICE L marks a strategic milestone:
- Accessibility: First step-free boarding for a high-speed long-distance train in Germany.
- Flexibility: Shorter train cars make it easier to adapt to different routes.
- Comfort & Technology: Improved mobile reception, innovative lighting, and high-quality interior materials set new standards.
For Deutsche Bahn, the launch of the ICE L Talgo sends a clear message to passengers: despite manufacturing delays and approval challenges, the modernization of its fleet remains a top priority.
Looking Ahead: More ICE L Trains Coming
By 2030, all 79 ordered ICE L units are expected to be in service. While the Berlin–Cologne route will be the first to benefit, Deutsche Bahn plans to deploy the train on additional routes, improving connections to medium-sized cities and enhancing the overall travel experience.
The ICE L is set to become a new benchmark in comfortable, fast, and accessible travel—an important part of Deutsche Bahn’s strategy for the future of eco-friendly mobility.
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