This new train combines high speed with improved accessibility.
Before a train is allowed to run in the Netherlands, the train manufacturer must first carry out admission tests. After an extensive admission programme, the latest Intercity (ICNG) has been officially approved by the Inspectorate (ILT) for use on the Dutch railways. For travelers, this means that traveling with the new, fast Intercity is one step closer.
This new train combines high speed with improved accessibility. The train is also fully equipped, such as comfortable seats, WiFi, sockets and USB connections. In the first half of this year, NS will start with the third phase of the NS Proefbedrijf. Then the trains will go for the first test run with passengers on board on the Amsterdam – Rotterdam – Breda route.
“It is an important milestone that the train has passed the inspection. This ensures that we can start a new phase of the test program. The trains that are currently running in the Netherlands are still test trains. As soon as the first train has been delivered and handed over to NS by the manufacturer, they go through another test program and then we can test drive with passengers for the first time. We expect to be able to run in the timetable before this summer. ”
The train is based on the Coradia concept of the French train manufacturer Alstom. More than 2400 trains of this concept are already running in several countries. The train has been specially adapted for NS, so that it is suitable for running on both the high-speed line (HSL) and the main rail network (HRN).
In recent years, the new Intercity has undergone an extensive test and admission programme. For example, tests have been carried out on various test tracks in Europe, in a special climate chamber in Vienna and, of course, many test runs on the Dutch railways, both on the HSL and the regular railway. Testing took longer than we expected.
The train is produced and developed in different countries. Factories were shut down due to corona, software could not be tested and developed further and parts were not available. In addition, various software updates were necessary. Now that the train has been officially approved, we can soon start with this final phase of the test program.
ICNG
The French train manufacturer Alstom develops and builds 99 fast Intercity trains for NS, with a total of 33.000 seats. With a top speed of 200 kilometers per hour on the HSL, the ICNG connects cities and regions more quickly. Due to the extra drive, this train accelerates faster than usual trains on the high-speed line, which comes in handy in the small Netherlands with relatively many stops. 20 of the 99 Intercity trains are also suitable for the Belgian railways. In this way, the connection to Brussels can be further improved, a long-cherished wish of our travelers to the south.
Source: NS news
