Not a battery-powered train the size of a model railway circling the Christmas tree, but seven real Mireo Plus B trains from Siemens: King Frederik of Denmark today inaugurated the trains that will replace the old diesel fleet in West Jutland and ensure quiet, emission-free rail transport there.
For Siemens Mobility and the Danish operator Midtjyske Jernbaner, this is a historic milestone representing Denmark's green transformation. The two-car Mireo Plus B multiple units offer 127 seats, a top speed of 140 km/h, and a battery-powered range of approximately 80 km. They feature a battery-hybrid drive system and can be charged via the 25 kV overhead line on electrified sections. On non-electrified lines, the batteries supply the power for propulsion, enabling completely CO₂-emission and quiet operation.
King Frederik gives the starting signal
The battery-powered trains will now enter passenger service on the Holstebro–Skjern and Vemb–Lemvig–Thyborøn lines . Their deployment is considered a significant step in Denmark's efforts to decarbonize public transport. For Midtjyske Jernbaner, this fulfills its ambitious goal of becoming "the greenest railway in the country."
Photos: Siemens Mobility
The new trains offer commuters and families in West Jutland a significantly improved travel experience with modern amenities, more frequent service, and increased capacity. "It's not only the first time our battery-powered trains have operated outside of Germany," says Thomas Graetz, Head of Commuter and Regional Trains at Siemens Mobility, "it also demonstrates how our technology offers a sustainable and efficient solution for non-electrified lines."
"The greenest railway in the country"
“When we decided six years ago to replace our diesel trains with more climate-friendly alternatives, we knew very little about the technology. (...) Today we are proud of it,” says Martha Vrist, CEO of Midtjyske Jernbaner.
The fleet for Midtjyske Jernbaner offers modern features such as Wi-Fi and passenger information systems, increased comfort, and higher capacity. The trains are lightweight, energy-efficient, and constructed from sustainable materials. The 2022 order was the first for Mireo Plus B trains outside of Germany, where the Mireo platform is already successfully operating with over 295 trains.
