U-Bahn Berlin – J/JK
Stadler Rail AG
Historically, the Berlin subway network consists of two different tunnel profiles: the small profile for subway lines 1-4 with a carbody width of 2.40 m and the large profile for subway lines 5-9 with a carbody width of 2.65 m. Considering the high age of the current fleet and the increasing number of passengers, BVG is purchasing up to 1,500 vehicles in the largest vehicle procurement in the company’s history. The new vehicles will enable Berlin’s subway fleet to grow by a third by 2035 and optimize passenger services by increasing the frequency of service on the main lines.
büro+staubach developed the design for the new vehicles of the large and small profile in cooperation with Stadler Rail AG.
The simultaneous procurement of new vehicles for the small and large profile offers both operational and economic advantages. The engineering and production of the railcars is significantly accelerated by modular design with as many identical parts as possible. At the same time, this will simplify the commissioning, maintenance and spare parts supply of the forthcoming vehicles.
The exterior design is a visual evolution of the IK series and is characterized by a clear, graphic appearance with high-quality detail solutions. Despite the different vehicle profiles and generations, this approach ties the vehicles into a single product family and strengthens the brand identity of the transport company.
Framed by yellow fairings, the generous and flat windshield creates a central element of the frontend. The flush-fitted emergency door blends into the background and is only recognizable by a delicate and subtle parting line pattern. The graphic headlight arrangement is a citation to the front section of the IK series and serves as an element of familiarity. At the platform, passengers are informed at eye level about the direction of travel and next stations via displays integrated into the side of the car body.
In the passenger space, particularly narrow door pillars and large door access areas ensure good passenger flow and a spacious overall impression. Barrier-free, large multi-purpose areas in the end cars, a sufficient number of grab bars and real-time passenger information ensure safe and needs-oriented operation.
büro+staubach developed the design for the new vehicles of the large and small profile in cooperation with Stadler Rail AG.
The simultaneous procurement of new vehicles for the small and large profile offers both operational and economic advantages. The engineering and production of the railcars is significantly accelerated by modular design with as many identical parts as possible. At the same time, this will simplify the commissioning, maintenance and spare parts supply of the forthcoming vehicles.
The exterior design is a visual evolution of the IK series and is characterized by a clear, graphic appearance with high-quality detail solutions. Despite the different vehicle profiles and generations, this approach ties the vehicles into a single product family and strengthens the brand identity of the transport company.
Framed by yellow fairings, the generous and flat windshield creates a central element of the frontend. The flush-fitted emergency door blends into the background and is only recognizable by a delicate and subtle parting line pattern. The graphic headlight arrangement is a citation to the front section of the IK series and serves as an element of familiarity. At the platform, passengers are informed at eye level about the direction of travel and next stations via displays integrated into the side of the car body.
In the passenger space, particularly narrow door pillars and large door access areas ensure good passenger flow and a spacious overall impression. Barrier-free, large multi-purpose areas in the end cars, a sufficient number of grab bars and real-time passenger information ensure safe and needs-oriented operation.
photo: Oliver Lang
photo: Dario Deschan
photo: Oliver Lang
photo: Oliver Lang
photo: Dario Deschan
