EuroNight 2.0
The EuroNight 2.0 project aims to develop a model specification for future rolling stock in European night train transport. It is based on a comprehensive analysis of technical, operational, regulatory and passenger-oriented requirements.
In addition, the project aims to provide concrete recommendations for action on how future night train concepts can meet the diverse requirements of passengers – from families and business travellers to people with reduced mobility. Particular attention is paid to comfort, sleep quality and luggage storage, but also to operational efficiency and European interoperability. The model specifications are thus intended to serve as a practical guide for operators, manufacturers and policy makers.
Client: DZSF – Research project “Rolling stock for the European night train service of the future”
Duration: November 2023 – October 2026
Project partners: netwiss OG; TU Vienna, Institute for Transport Sciences and Mechanics; Pölten University of Applied Sciences, Department of Railway Technology and Mobility; Zurich University of Applied Sciences; Siemens Mobility Austria; Skoda Austria; moodley design; noicon; Rodlauer Consulting; Institute for Sleep and Wakefulness Research; Elisabeth Oberzaucher
Project description:
The renaissance of night trains in Europe goes hand in hand with growing awareness of climate-friendly mobility. At the same time, operators face challenges such as economic operation, comfort requirements, accessibility and regulatory hurdles in international transport.
In Europe, there is growing pressure to replace air travel with more climate-friendly alternatives. Night trains offer great potential here: they enable comfortable travel over medium and long distances, avoid hotel stays and can be a real alternative to short-haul flights. Despite these opportunities, however, night trains are often difficult to operate economically. Different standards and approval regulations in Europe make cross-border operation even more difficult. Comfort, accessibility and modern service concepts are also not yet sufficiently guaranteed everywhere.
The following topics are an integral part of the project:
1. Inventory of the European rolling stock, including benchmarks for international vehicles, other modes of transport and compact living systems.
2. Analysis of international and national standards for the construction and operation of night trains, including accessibility requirements.
3. Historical classification of sleeping cars and couchette cars since 1949 and their service concepts.
4. Sleep research on trains: identification of factors that promote and disrupt sleep, mobile test runs with a sleep laboratory.
5. Passenger requirements: survey of different needs (families, business travellers, people with reduced mobility, luggage requirements).
6. Vehicle concepts: Development of new interior and equipment concepts, including 3D visualisations and mock-ups.
7. High-speed night trains: analysis of possible applications, routes, costs and comfort issues.
8. Sample specifications: Consolidation of all results in practical specifications for future seating, couchette and sleeping cars.
The results of the project are:
– Comprehensive sample specifications for new and redesigned night train vehicles
– Recommendations for action regarding technology, equipment, operation and service
– Concepts for promoting sleep quality, comfort and accessibility
– Proposals for suitable routes and deployment scenarios in the European night train network
Contact: DI Dr. Bernhard Rüger