Austrian Railways (ÖBB) is investing €1.5 billion in a new fleet of Cityjet double-decker trains, which are being put through their paces in the world’s largest climate wind tunnel ahead of entering service next autumn.

Of the 109 new Cityjet trains, 41 will operate in Austria’s eastern region. The rigorous testing process was showcased to the public on Monday.

The new trains form part of a wider €6 billion investment programme, which aims to introduce around 330 new trains by 2030. Passengers can look forward to power sockets at every seat and stable Wi-Fi across the fleet.

Engineered for Extreme Conditions

The climate wind tunnel in Floridsdorf, Vienna’s 21st district, is capable of simulating extreme heat, heavy snow and wind speeds of up to 300 km/h.

Christian Diewald, managing director of manufacturer Stadler Austria, said the new trains would offer “perfectly temperature-controlled” carriages. For Diewald, the cutting-edge technology in Floridsdorf is “indispensable to the rail industry” and plays a crucial role in Austria’s rail exports.

Rising Passenger Numbers

ÖBB is expanding its fleet to keep up with growing passenger demand. Since the launch of the “new” western route, the number of commuters travelling between Vienna and St. Pölten has risen from 30,000 to 70,000, said Heinz Freunschlag, board member of ÖBB-Personenverkehr AG.