Deutsche Bahn (DB) has announced plans to adapt up to 32 ICE 3neo trains for future international operations in France and Poland, as part of a 200 million EUR investment in long-distance cross-border rail transport.
This development will allow for direct ICE services to run between Berlin and Warsaw for the first time, while building on existing operations between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The modifications will be undertaken by Siemens Mobility at its Krefeld facility in Germany. The work will equip the high-speed trains with the necessary systems to meet the infrastructure and signalling requirements in both Poland and France.
Currently, the ICE 3neo operates on domestic German routes and international services between Frankfurt/Main and Brussels or Amsterdam. Once the adaptation and approval processes are completed, the trains will also be used on services linking Germany with France and Poland.
Dr Michael Peterson, DB Board Member for Long-Distance Passenger Transport, said:In the future, we also want to connect Berlin and Warsaw with the ICE. To achieve this, we are making the ICE 3neo even more international and are investing an additional €200 million in the approval of our flagship for Poland and France. This further invests in the integration of Europe by rail. The boom in international long-distance transport shows that our growth strategy is correct. We will unlock the full potential of Europe-wide long-distance transport if the right infrastructure measures are taken now.
The adaptations will require testing and certification before full deployment. The first modified trains are expected in 2031, with final deliveries extending to 2032 due to schedule adjustments.
Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility said:Cross-border mobility is a crucial key to a more connected Europe. With our country-specific equipment, the ICE 3neo is optimally adapted to the signaling technology and infrastructure in each country. This will enable not only a direct connection from Berlin to Warsaw, but also connections to France – fast, comfortable, and climate-friendly. This sends a strong signal to international rail transport and a vote of confidence in our technology. We are delighted to contribute to bringing Europe even closer together by rail with our experience and innovative strength, and in close partnership with Deutsche Bahn.
In total, DB has ordered 90 ICE 3neo trains from Siemens Mobility, of which 29 have been delivered. The first began passenger service in late 2022. In mid-2024, the new fleet replaced older trains on the Frankfurt–Amsterdam and Frankfurt–Brussels routes. According to DB, this led to a noticeable decrease in train cancellations linked to rolling stock issues on these routes.
Passengers have responded positively to the ICE 3neo’s new design, which was introduced in late 2023. Features include upgraded seating with enhanced personal space, new materials such as wood-effect finishes, and an updated colour palette.
Additional amenities include:
- Inductive charging surfaces for smartphones in first class
- Ambient floor lighting and oak wood decor
- Touchless features in toilets, including waste bins and dispensers
- A baby seat in the accessible toilet, designed to assist solo travellers with children
