Innovative trainsets for cross-border traffic

Innovative trainsets delivered by the German rolling stock industry to foreign customers in 2005 are discussed. The Velaro trainset platform developed by Siemens Transportation Systems and based on the successful ICE 3 trainset concept used by German Railways is described. This satisfies all standards in the Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI Standards). The trainsets are prepared for future deployment on lines equipped with the pan-European standardised European Train Control System (ETCS). Details are given of the design of the Velaro E introduced in Spain in 2005. The Desiro family of multiple units developed by Siemens Transportation Systems is described and the new Desiro Mainline is outlined. Details are given of the design of the Desiro type RABe 514 double-deck electric multiple units purchased by Switzerland and of the Desiro UK multiple unit family with an aluminium structure to satisfy the requirements of the UK mass transit market. An overview is presented of the Desiro UK basic variants.