Siemens Mobility has unveiled its new Velaro high-speed train to the Egyptian public during the TransMEA 2025 exhibition.
The new train has been specifically adapted to operate in the country’s desert conditions; and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h with seating for 489 passengers.
Additionally, Siemens’ Desiro HC regional train successfully completed its very-first run on a set of newly constructed tracks near the 6th of October Depot, located west of Cairo.
The train has been commissioned for the Green Line, a 660km network connecting Cairo to Ain Sokhna, Alexandria, and Marsa Matrouh, otherwise referred to as the ‘Suez Canal on Rails’.
Both of Siemens’ milestones were witnessed by Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Transport Kamel El-Wazir, Siemens AG President and CEO Roland Busch, Siemens Mobility CEO Michael Peter, amongst others.
Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG said:, said:We are witnessing the future of mobility in Egypt take shape. The public debut of our Velaro high-speed train at TransMEA and the first train run of the Desiro regional train are powerful symbols of progress and partnership.
These milestones reflect our commitment to delivering world-class technology and supporting Egypt’s vision for sustainable mobility and economic growth. Together with our partners, we are proud to help build Egypt’s new high-speed rail network - soon the sixth largest in the world - connecting millions of Egyptian people across the country, and transforming mobility for generations to come.
Built to withstand Egypt’s desert environments; the Velaro’s design has been optimised for maximum performance and durability, and is supported by comprehensive filtration systems, alongside enhanced cooling to ensure passenger comfort in the extreme climate.
Meanwhile, Siemens’ Desiro High-Capacity regional train is set to form a key element of Egypt’s new high-speed rail network; which is currently being developed in partnership with Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction. Offering up to 849 passenger spaces; each train comes equipped with advanced features such as air conditioning, Signalling ETCS Level 2 train protection and wheelchair access, with a top speed of 160 km/h.
The high-speed rail network is set to span over 2,000 kilometres and connect all major cities, reaching almost 90% of the country’s population.
H.E. Lieutenant General Kamel El-Wazir, Minister of Transport, said:The inaugural ride of the Desiro regional train and the arrival of the Velaro marks a defining moment in Egypt’s transport modernisation strategy. This high-speed train project will help redefine passenger experience, reduce travel times, and boost connectivity between cities.
It reflects our commitment to building a modern, safe, and sustainable rail network that serves our people and supports Egypt’s economic growth for generations to come.
Siemens is set to provide maintenance as part of a 15-year commitment, which covers the entire railway equipments including the fleet for the new high-speed rail network (41 Velaro high-speed trains, 94 Desiro High-Capacity regional trains, and 41 Vectron locomotives).
