Deutsche Bahn (DB) and Google are working together to make it even easier to plan and book rail travel using Google Maps.
DB is integrating real-time data from all long-distance trains into Google Maps for the first time, expanding the route planner’s features after the first collaboration of its kind in Hamburg at the end of 2020, a project conducted in partnership with Hamburger Hochbahn AG.
The new DB collaboration provides users with live information on roughly 800 daily ICE/IC/EC train journeys and enables them to receive information on departure and arrival times in real time.
In addition, live operational reports such as track changes or information – for example in the event of severe weather-related restrictions – are displayed directly in Google Maps.
Once the trip is planned, users will find a ticket link in the Google Maps app, connecting them directly to a DB portal where they can select and book a train ticket without having to re-enter any travel details.
Before the end of this year both companies will work together on additional route planning features.
“We're using Google Maps to reach a large number of people in Germany who’re not yet taking the train. (They) can see how fast and comfortable DB long-distance transport is in direct comparison with other means of transport and receive the same live timetable as on our digital DB channels. In this way, we’re opening up access to the railway.
“This is a giant step towards the mobility revolution, because with the expansion of our digital services we’re gaining even more passengers and therefore strengthening the climate-friendly rail network.”
