Regional Rail Network Trains and Predictive Maintenance Infrastructure

BeNEX and Siemens Mobility are collaborating to deploy a new fleet of 56 regional trains for the Mainfranken regional network in Germany. The implementation integrates standardized rail technology with digital diagnostic platforms to optimize passenger capacity and predictive maintenance across the transportation infrastructure.

Regional Transport Network Modernization
The modernization of the Mainfranken regional network requires high-capacity railway vehicles equipped with standardized train protection systems. BeNEX, acting through its regional transport subsidiary agilis, contracted Siemens Mobility to supply the rolling stock and associated digital maintenance infrastructure. The deployment addresses the requirement for increased passenger capacity and operational reliability on the 330-kilometer rail network operating across Hesse and Bavaria, managed by the Bavarian Railway Company (BEG) and the Rhine-Main Transport Association (RMV). The network operation was officially awarded to BeNEX on July 16, 2026.

Technical Vehicle Configuration and Safety Systems
The engineering contract encompasses 26 four-car Desiro High Capacity double-decker trains and 30 three-car Mireo trains. The Desiro High Capacity vehicles provide 424 seats to absorb high passenger demand on specific routes, while the Mireo units are configured with 210 seats for standard regional transport. All 56 vehicles are structurally equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) and intermittent automatic train control (PZB). Siemens Mobility is responsible for manufacturing the vehicles, integrating the Onboard Units, and supplying the initial spare parts packages and specialized diagnostic tools for both vehicle platforms.

Infrastructure Deployment and Passenger Accessibility
The rolling stock is scheduled for deployment on the Frankfurt–Würzburg–Nürnberg/Bamberg rail routes at the end of 2030. The technical design of the trains incorporates barrier-free entry mechanisms, dedicated wheelchair spaces, and integrated bicycle storage capacity—18 spaces in Mireo units and 39 in Desiro High Capacity units. The vehicles utilize eco-friendly air conditioning units and USB charging ports to support standard passenger requirements during daily transit operations.

Predictive Maintenance and Digital Integration
To ensure lifecycle reliability, the entire fleet interfaces directly with the Siemens Mobility Railigent X platform. This digital architecture facilitates the continuous exchange and evaluation of diagnostic telemetry, passenger counting metrics, and passenger information system data. The integration of this digital interface establishes the foundation for predictive maintenance protocols, enabling high vehicle availability and optimized operational efficiency throughout the lifespan of the rolling stock.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

www.siemens.com