The Deutsche Bahn has presented its new long-distance train ICE L at Berlin's Ostbahnhof station. Featuring a step-free entry, the train is set to enter service gradually from December 14, aiming to boost passenger comfort. While praised for accessibility, some critics view it as a spruced-up IC model.
At the presentation in Berlin's Ostbahnhof station, Deutsche Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla stated: 'We want not only to transport, we want to enthuse.' The ICE L, with L standing for 'Low Floor,' eliminates stairs at the doors for full accessibility. New seats and a modern interior design aim to create a homely atmosphere. Palla added: 'With the new ICE L, we are focusing on more comfort and reliability for our passengers.'
Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) praised the model: 'The customer must once again be king on the rails. The ICE L is a perfect example of that.' Built by Spanish manufacturer Talgo, the train offers 562 seats, including 85 in first class. Features include colored LED reservation displays, sockets at every seat, and mobile signal-permeable windows. It has the largest family area in the ICE fleet with 46 seats, plus nine in a toddler compartment.
The ICE L reaches a top speed of 230 kilometers per hour, slower than other ICE models up to 300 km/h. Its cars are about half as long as conventional ICE ones, creating a more private and quieter feel. Unlike pure powered trains, it has an integrated control car at one end and is pulled by a locomotive at the other—initially a Siemens model, later a specially developed Talgo loco. The train can also operate on diesel for non-electrified tracks, such as to Sylt.
Deutsche Bahn has ordered up to 79 units. The first four will run from December between Cologne and Berlin, from May 2026 on the Berlin–Hamburg–Westerland route, and from July to other areas like the Allgäu. Originally planned for autumn 2024, the rollout was delayed by supplier issues and approval processes. Permissions for routes to the Netherlands, Austria, and Denmark are still pending. In Germany, the Talgo loco is not yet approved to run. The ICE L forms part of the fleet modernization strategy to reduce the average age of ICE trains from 17 to 15 years by 2030.
Some critics regard the ICE L as merely a spruced-up IC.