Italian rail operator Italo seeks entry into Germany's long‑distance market, plans 2028 high‑speed services

The Italian high‑speed train company Italo has applied to Germany’s Federal Network Agency for changes to access conditions on the country’s long‑distance rail network. Italo aims to launch services from spring 2028 with 30 high‑speed trains on two routes – a hourly line between Munich, Frankfurt, Cologne and Dortmund, and a two‑hourly line linking Munich, Berlin and Hamburg. The operator is requesting long‑term track contracts and guaranteed capacity slots to secure investment in its fleet.

Deutsche Bahn, which currently holds about 95 % of the long‑distance market, has responded with caution, warning that unchecked competition could affect less‑used regional connections. Meanwhile, the railway is trialing a new “Super Sparpreis Last Minute” fare that offers tickets from €6.99 for under‑utilised ICE services, released each Saturday night for the following week. The discount scheme has seen limited uptake so far due to holiday travel peaks and a lack of clear search tools, but officials hope it will attract price‑sensitive passengers as the fare matures.