Lower Saxony invests €2 billion in 113 battery-powered trains

The German state of Lower Saxony has announced a major investment exceeding €2 billion to modernize its regional rail network. As part of the “2040+” transport strategy, the state will procure 113 battery-powered trains to reduce reliance on diesel engines and improve connectivity in rural areas.

Siemens Mobility will supply the vehicles. Specifically, 83 Mireo Plus B trains are designated for the Landesnahverkehrsgesellschaft Niedersachsen (LNVG), while an additional 30 trains are allocated to the Regionalverband Großraum Braunschweig. The new trains are designed to operate on non-electrified tracks using battery power, recharging while traveling on electrified sections. They will feature a top speed of 160 km/h, Wi-Fi, and increased capacity for bicycles and wheelchairs.

The project also includes the construction of two new maintenance workshops in Soltau and Goslar, along with long-term maintenance and spare parts packages. The first battery trains are expected to enter service in the Weser-Leine and Harz-Heide networks by the end of 2031.