Siemens Mobility has commissioned Knorr-Bremse to equip the latest generation of Munich S-Bahn (suburban) trains with braking systems and – for the first time – coupling systems. The schedule for delivery of the 90 or more lightweight trains starts at the end of 2028. They will also be deployed on Munich’s second main S-Bahn line, which is currently under construction.
Dr. Nicolas Lange, Member of the Executive Board of Knorr-Bremse AG with global responsibility for the Rail Division: “Knorr-Bremse aims to be a major mover and driver of innovation in the rail sector, and we’re pursuing this mission by delivering enhanced system technologies. The high-profile Munich S-Bahn project is another major step forward in our longstanding partnership with Siemens Mobility – not least because we have our headquarters in the city. What’s more, our first coupling systems project with Siemens Mobility contributes to our BOOST strategy, which is about expanding our involvement in forward-looking, highly promising technology segments. As our overall goal, we are aiming to build on our company’s success, innovation leadership, and long-term customer benefits.”
Quieter, eco-friendly braking technologies
By supplying braking systems and center buffer couplers for the S-Bahn trains, Knorr-Bremse will contribute to fulfilling the customer’s expectations on optimized lifecycle costs, improved energy efficiency and highest possible vehicle availability. The braking systems include magnetic track brakes (MTBs), pneumatic brake control systems, bogie equipment and the latest generation of ScrewSupply Eco screw-type compressors. The new compressor optimizes maintenance and overhaul cycles, and further reduces noise emissions by using smart components such as electrically controlled fans.
Knorr-Bremse is scheduled to start series delivery of the automatic couplers at the end of 2025. Siemens Mobility opted for the coupling technology on the basis of its modularity, exceptional reliability and optimized lifecycle costs. Since successfully entering the international market for coupling systems, Knorr-Bremse has developed a range of modular couplers for various types of trains and has been awarded several major orders.
The Siemens Mobility order also includes wiper/wash systems for the new trains. The two companies already have a long history of collaboration in this product segment, and this project adds yet another chapter. Knorr-Bremse’s wiper/wash systems are already used on Siemens Mobility’s Mireo train platform.
Increasing the capacity of Munich’s suburban rail system
Each of the new 13-car S-Bahn multiple-unit trains has a total length of about 202 meters and can carry up to 1,841 passengers. The trains will supplement the existing fleet, enhancing the capacity of Munich’s urban and regional transit systems. Visually, the S-Bahn trains – which were unveiled at InnoTrans 2024 – will feature an attractive blue and white design instead of the former red color scheme, as well as a modernized interior, including spaces for families and groups in the passenger cars and various information systems with optimized accessibility.
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