Berlin’s metro, an important part of the public transport network, is undergoing a modernization process with the new generation trains developed by Stadler. Testing of the new J and JK series metro trains has begun in Berlin, and full operation of these modern vehicles is planned for 2026. This development promises a more comfortable, faster and more reliable transportation experience for Berlin metro users.
New Trains Arrive at Depots, Test Drives Begin Soon
The first two-car train from the J series has arrived at the Britz depot for testing and adaptation. It will serve as part of Berlin’s existing fleet of upgraded railway vehicles. Another four-car train from the same series was previously delivered to the Friedrichsfelde depot in 2023. The first test runs of the J series trains are planned for the coming months. These tests will measure in detail the trains’ compatibility with the infrastructure and their performance.
Meanwhile, twelve trains from the JK series, another series produced by Stadler for the Berlin U-Bahn, are currently in the testing phase. Data from the test processes of these trains will also provide important input for the optimization of the J-series trains.
Production Details of Stadler's New Generation Metro Trains
Designed specifically for the Berlin Underground, Stadler’s J-series trains are ideal for the busy routes between the wide-gauge U5 and U9 metro lines. These new-generation trains have larger dimensions than current vehicles. Each carriage is designed to be 16 metres long and 2,65 metres wide. Each carriage has three wide doors on each side to speed up passenger flow and shorten boarding and disembarkation times.
Stadler will produce a total of 344 new-generation trains for the Berlin U-Bahn. Trains are being produced in both two-car and four-car configurations. This important production activity is carried out directly in Stadler’s modern factory in Berlin. A total of 1.500 new trains are planned to be supplied within the framework of a comprehensive contract with the city’s transport operator Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG). 484 trains have already been ordered, but future deliveries will depend on the stability of production processes.
Economic Challenges and Launch Delays
However, this important modernization project has faced some challenges, such as global economic turmoil and delays in software development processes. Stadler has experienced financial difficulties due to the unstable international environment and disruptions in complex software integration processes. These factors have also had a negative impact on the timetable for the new trains to be put into service.
Initially planned for 2022, the launch date had to be postponed until September 2025 due to disruptions. Despite these delays, Stadler remains committed to modernizing Berlin’s public transport system. With the entry into service of the new generation trains, passenger comfort is expected to increase significantly, waiting times to be shortened and the quality of service, especially on the busiest subway lines, to increase significantly. Berlin subway users will experience a more enjoyable transport experience with these modern and comfortable trains.
