Bombardier Transportation announced on 20 December 2008 that it will supply 64 double-deck coaches to Deutsche Bahn (DB) AG for use in the Germany state of Schleswig-Holstein. The transaction is valued at approximately 90 million euros ($130 million US) and constitutes another firm order under a framework agreement signed in 2003. That agreement provided for acquisition of 298 double-deck coaches with options for a further 300. With today’s announcement, DB has executed firm orders for 523 of the 598 vehicles available under the 2003 framework deal. DB now has more than 1,600 Bombardier double-deck coaches in operation or on order across Germany.

The new vehicles are to be used on the Eastern Network routes in Schleswig-Holstein, stretching from the city of Lübeck to Hamburg, Kiel, Lüneburg and Travemünde. Production is due to begin in the second quarter of 2008 at Bombardier's production plant in Görlitz, Germany. Bogies for the vehicles will be supplied by Bombardier facilities in Siegen, Germany. Vehicle deliveries will take place between October 2008 and October 2009.

"The reliability and outstanding quality of the double deck coaches make them a real best-seller", said Dr. Klaus Baur, Chairman and Chief Country Representative, Germany, Bombardier Transportation. "Their generous capacity also means that they are more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly to operate. They form a vital part of Deutsche Bahn's transport strategy, but also enjoy great popularity with rail operators and passengers in Luxembourg, Denmark and Israel."

The new vehicles, capable of speeds up to 160 km/h, will offer passengers on the Eastern Network routes state-of-the-art capabilities tailored to suit regional requirements. Features include full air-conditioning in both first- and second-class compartments, extremely comfortable seating, an innovative lighting system and exceptionally quiet ride characteristics. The control cars equipped with driver cabins will have an entrance designed for use by passengers with restricted mobility. Some control cars and trailer cars will also feature a passenger counting system.