Deutsche Bahn (DB) has announced that its routes from Frankfurt am Main via Cologne to Amsterdam and Brussels are now exclusively served by the modern ICE 3neo in time for the UEFA EURO 2024 event.
This move, originally scheduled for a later date, has been advanced by six months to replace older, less reliable models. The accelerated timeline was made possible through effective collaboration with Siemens Mobility, regulatory authorities, and European railway partners.
The transition is now set to improve the comfort and reliability of rail travel between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
“The ICE 3neo will enhance travel to Amsterdam and Brussels, arriving just in time for the European Championships. This change will directly benefit the numerous fans and international travellers who can now enjoy a more comfortable and reliable journey.”
As an official national partner of UEFA EURO 2024 event, DB is committed to providing climate-friendly travel options for fans and teams across Europe.
Special offers and increased train services will be available during the European Championship matches, including almost 10,000 additional seats per day on ICE and Intercity trains. Furthermore, 14 special European Championship trains will operate daily.
DB’s deployment for the event includes its largest and most modern ICE fleet to date, comprising 410 trains. This effort is part of the Strong Rail strategy, which involves a 12 billion EUR investment in modernising its long-distance fleet by 2030. This modernisation will reduce the average age of long-distance trains from 18 to 12 years, with DB receiving a new ICE train every three weeks this year.
“By rejuvenating our fleet, we ensure greater reliability and comfort for our passengers. Expanding the fleet is crucial for achieving the goals of Strong Rail and doubling our long-distance passenger transport performance. Train travel is also a key component in protecting the climate.”
The ICE 3neo has been operational in Germany since December 2022, demonstrating high reliability and customer satisfaction. Passenger surveys highlight the appreciation for features such as mobile phone-permeable windows and new LED reservation displays.
The train’s interior design, introduced with the 17th unit, also offers numerous enhancements:
- New Seat Design: Seats are designed as personal retreats with improved adjustment options for added comfort
- Modern Materials: The interior features wood decor and high-quality fabric covers with 85 percent wool content
- Increased Functionality: Integrated tablet holders and coat hooks on each backrest enhance functionality
DB has ordered 90 ICE 3neos from Siemens, each equipped for operation in Belgium and the Netherlands.
