ÖBB to Acquire KISS Trains to Boost Southern Routes

ÖBB plans to purchase 17 used KISS trains from DB to accelerate network expansion in southern Austria and meet rising demand for intercity travel. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Germany’s national railway (DB) offered these units, which previously belonged to the private operator Westbahn. The KISS trains were built by Stadler and can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h.

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Manufactured between 2011 and 2017, the trains have already been modernized to meet DB standards. They are certified for use in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, which facilitates their reintegration into service.

KISS trains to return on the Vienna–Salzburg route

ÖBB plans to operate these units again on the Vienna–Salzburg line, where they previously ran. The trains are expected to re-enter service by fall 2025 at the latest.

This move aligns with the upcoming launch of the high-speed Koralmbahn line, which will offer direct connections between Vienna and Austria’s southern regions. This corridor is a key priority in ÖBB’s development plans.

KISS trains offer modern comfort and capacity

Each six-car train accommodates 486 passengers, including 66 first-class seats. Interior layouts also include spaces for eight bicycles and two wheelchairs.

These trains are ideal for both business and leisure travel, combining speed, comfort, and accessibility for a wide range of passenger needs.

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