Wiener Linien, which operates the Vienna Metro has unveiled its new X-Wagen model which recently entered passenger service.
The new train developed and manufactured by Siemens Mobility is being hailed as the first of a new generation of metro trains with digitalisation playing a huge part in how it operates. Some of those innovations include the Passenger Information Plus system, which was tailored for Wiener Linien. The system works by providing continually updated information on screens above all the doors – This will show direction of the stations exits, transfer information and departure times for the station amongst other key information.
Also installed is the airless braking system which are controlled purely by an electronic signal-brake-by-wire - which is sent from the brake control unit to the intelligent actuator - the brake caliper. With the new design, it means time is significantly saved as with conventional compressed air brakes, it takes on average, 12 minutes. The new design cuts this time down by a third.
The Wiener Linien has slowly being modernising its fleet, as it looks to replace the Silver Arrow trains currently in operation. Peter Henke, city councillor for public transport said: “The X-Wagen metro is trendsetting for our climate model city.
“A sophisticated train with state-of-the-art technical solutions included and produced in Vienna makes public transport even more attractive and comfortable. The X-Wagen metro is part of the comprehensive modernisation of the Vienna public transport fleet.”
The new X-Wagen metro also has an open-plan interior with up to 928 passengers being able to travel.
Alongside the launch of the new trains, Wiener Linien also announced that its aiming to have two of its stations fully automated by 2026, improving safety and reliability on the metro line.
Albrecht Neumann, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility, noted: “By introducing the X-Wagen metro, the city of Vienna is taking a big leap into the future of digitalized transport. Innovations like the new passenger information system with real-time updates and the air-free brake system are making their world debut, and the fully automated operation coming later on the U5 line will provide great benefits.”
Images Credit: Wiener Linien
Video Credit: Siemens Mobility
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