ÖBB is increasing its order of new-generation Railjets to accommodate expected passenger volumes on long-distance daytime routes.
The decision follows internal assessments related to capacity needs on international daytime services, particularly toward neighbouring countries. While no changes to the technical design have been announced, the seven-car Railjets are configured to allow double traction operations on routes within Austria and toward Germany. All 40 units are scheduled for delivery by the end of the decade.
Update to Nightjet orders
ÖBB has also amended its existing agreement with Siemens Mobility regarding its Nightjet fleet. Out of the originally planned 33 new-generation Nightjets, 24 units will now be delivered by mid-2026. The updated arrangement impacts the final fleet configuration but retains the core focus on overnight service capacities.
The existing Nightjet rolling stock will continue to be used alongside the new trainsets. The upcoming delivery will support a mix of sleeping and reclining options, in line with the current service offer on the European night train network.
Passenger numbers have shown a steady increase in recent years. ÖBB reported a total of 511 million passengers in 2023 and 2024 combined. In response, long-distance operations are being recalibrated to handle projected traffic growth over the next five years.
All new-generation Railjet and Nightjet sets are being supplied by Siemens Mobility. The revised order includes both fleet expansions and modifications to delivery schedules.
