CAF Begins Construction on New Depot in Gelsenkirchen

CAF has officially started building a modern train depot in Gelsenkirchen-Bismarck to support the future operation of its battery-electric train fleet on the Niederrhein-Münsterland network. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

After gaining final construction approval from the Münster District Government in February 2025, CAF moved quickly to launch the preparatory phase before beginning full-scale development.

The cornerstone ceremony on July 9 brought together key figures including CAF Germany Managing Director Ronald R.F. Lünser, Gelsenkirchen Mayor Karin Welge, and VRR President Oliver Wittke.

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Around 100 guests from politics, business, and public transportation attended the event, emphasizing the regional importance of revitalizing the former industrial site.

CAF Advances Depot Construction with Green Rail Focus

The project includes laying 3,500 meters of new track and installing 14 switches. Plans also feature electrified lines for delivery, train parking zones, and high-speed battery charging stations.

Two access tracks will connect the facility to DB’s infrastructure on both the eastern and western ends, ensuring operational flexibility and integration with national services.

The 90,000-square-meter site will house a three-track maintenance hall and technical buildings. These include a wheelset processing unit, an exterior cleaning system, and a wide range of support systems.

Altogether, the buildings will cover 6,500 square meters and integrate digital technology to boost efficiency and sustainability across maintenance operations.

CAF Supports Zero-Emission Strategy Through Battery-Electric Trains

CAF aims to transform the dormant depot into a cornerstone of regional development while advancing its strategy for zero-emission transport in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Construction is expected to finish by the end of 2026. The battery-electric units will begin replacing diesel trains on the network from 2027, offering cleaner and quieter travel.

CAF is delivering 76 battery-powered trains to VRR and NWL, helping these authorities reduce emissions and modernize local rail service under their long-term sustainability plans.

Source: www.railwaypro.com

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