Cutting Corner Seats: Deutsche Bahn's Plan to Diminish Long-Distance Traffic
German railway company, Deutsche Bahn, to eliminate numerous long-distance travel seats.
Get ready for a possible squeeze on train seats, folks! Deutsche Bahn (DB) is contemplating significant downsizing in its long-distance traffic offerings. The company considers reducing the number of trains and seats substantially, possibly leading to a mere 244,000 seats in 2036, compared to the current 265,000. This reduction is suggested by an internal document exposed by "Der Spiegel".
The Intercity trains are expected to take the most hit, with a potential reduction from the current 55,000 seats to a staggering 32,000. It's essential to clarify that these numbers represent the total seats in the fleet, not the actual availability of seats for customers during their daily commute.
Bumping Off the Speedsters
The proposal also hints at a restructuring of the vehicle fleet. High-speed ICE3 trains that can reach up to 330 kilometers per hour might either be decommissioned or sold. ICE-T trains featuring tilting technology are also on the chopping block, destined for decommissioning, dismantling, or auction.
Guns Blazing to Avoid EU Procedure
New trains could also find themselves in the crosshairs. The document proposes delaying orders for 32 ICE-3-Neo trains and cancelling the entire order for 19 new ICE L trains. Moreover, 27 old double-decker trains of the IC2 type may be auctioned off. This year, DB sold double-decker trains of the Kiss type, bought in 2019, to the Austrian Federal Railways.
Excess Baggage: DB's Austerity Trek
DB's managers are eyeing these measures to cut costs and steer clear of a potential EU state aid procedure. Back in 2020, "Der Spiegel" reported on DB's contemplations to axe numerous underutilized long-distance connections in light of escalating track charges. Now, it appears that DB continues its austere course with its rolling stock.
Now, buckle up, travelers! Strap in for DB's rollercoaster ride of cost-cutting measures and meaningful reductions in long-distance train seats. As the European rail market evolves, David (DB) might just have to face off against Goliath (Nox) to preserve market share!
As DB moves towards cost-cutting, community and employment policies may need to address the potential job losses due to the planned reduction in train seats and vehicles. This restructuring could indirectly impact the automotive industry through changes in transportation, as fewer trains could affect freight transport. The financial implications of DB's plans could also have broader effects on the overall business sector, given the significance of DB's operations within the European rail industry.
