German rail operators DB Regio and SWEG restructure regional services

DB Regio, Germany’s largest regional rail operator, will integrate Start Deutschland GmbH on 1 August 2026. All contracts and staff of Start will be transferred to DB Regio, and services will continue under the DB Regio brand with no change to timetables or passenger experience. The move is part of Deutsche Bahn’s strategy to simplify its regional operations and improve efficiency.

The Südwestdeutsche Landesverkehrs‑GmbH (SWEG) has won the tender for the Hochrhein network (Netz 66) and will operate the Basel–Waldshut–Singen–Radolfzell routes from the timetable change on 14 December 2027 until December 2032. SWEG will run 19 Siemens Mireo electric multiple units, offering barrier‑free entry, ample seating, standing space and bicycle capacity. The contract includes a maintenance agreement with Siemens and aims to ensure continued electric service on the cross‑border line.

Both changes are intended to streamline regional rail provision, retain staff expertise and maintain service quality for passengers in the affected German and border‑area regions.