Siemens to supply 56 regional trains for Mainfranken network; service starts toward end of 2030

# What happened BeNEX has commissioned Siemens Mobility to supply 56 regional trains for the Mainfranken regional network. The contract was finalised during InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin. The fleet consists of 26 four-car Desiro High Capacity trains and 30 three-car Mireo trains. Delivery and entry into service on the Frankfurt–Würzburg–Nürnberg/Bamberg routes are scheduled toward the end of 2030.

# Train types and technical fit Both train types will be equipped with key safety and onboard systems required for German regional operation:

• ETCS (European Train Control System).
• Intermittent automatic train control (PZB).
• Onboard Units for lineside and traffic interfaces.

All units are designed to be barrier-free and include passenger conveniences such as eco-friendly air conditioning and USB charging ports.

# Capacity and interior features The two train families have different capacity and interior specifications:

• Mireo (three-car): 210 seats, two toilets, 18 bicycle spaces.
• Desiro High Capacity (four-car, double-decker formation): up to 242 seated passengers, three toilets, 39 bicycle spaces.

These interiors are aimed at regional services where a mix of seated capacity and bicycle accommodation is required.

# Digital operations and lifecycle support Every vehicle will be connected to Siemens Mobility's Railigent X platform. That connection will be used to exchange and evaluate:

• Diagnostic data for condition monitoring and maintenance planning.
• Passenger counting data to inform load management and scheduling.
• Information for on-board passenger information systems.

Siemens will also supply spare parts packages and special tools intended for use across the approximately 330-kilometer Mainfranken network covering parts of Hesse and Bavaria.

# Where and when these trains will run The new units are intended for routes linking Frankfurt, Würzburg, Nürnberg and Bamberg. They will operate on the Mainfranken regional network, a corridor spanning roughly 330 kilometers. Service entry is projected toward the end of 2030.

# Stakeholders and statements The signing took place at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin. Thomas Graetz, Head of Commuter and Regional Trains at Siemens Mobility, commented on the order, noting the trains combine modern rail technology with capacity, accessibility and passenger comfort to expand capacity on the network. BeNEX representatives present included managing directors Michael von Mallinckrodt and Johann von Georg.

# Practical implications for passengers and operators Passengers can expect barrier-free access, climate-controlled interiors, USB charging and dedicated bicycle spaces. Operators gain vehicles already equipped for current European signalling standards and connected to a digital diagnostics platform that supports predictive maintenance and operational monitoring. The delivered spare parts and tools aim to streamline fleet upkeep across the Mainfranken network.

# Bottom line This contract adds 56 purpose-built regional trains to the Mainfranken network fleet, pairing higher-capacity double-decker Desiro HC units with three-car Mireo sets. The package includes signalling equipment, onboard connectivity, digital diagnostics and lifecycle support, with operations planned to start toward the end of 2030 on routes between Frankfurt, Würzburg, Nürnberg and Bamberg.