Experimental Velaro Novo Car Reaches 405 km/h in Germany

The experimental Velaro Novo car, tested on the Leipzig–Erfurt section, reached a speed of 405 km/h, confirming the platform’s potential from Siemens Mobility for future high-speed rail corridors. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Velaro Novo Demonstrates Record Speed in Trial Runs

The ICE-S test train exceeded 400 km/h in Germany thanks to a modified intermediate car built on the Velaro Novo platform. This car has been undergoing real-world trials since 2018.

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Although impressive, the train did not surpass the 1988 speed record of 406.9 km/h set by the ICE/V. However, current results show it is closing in on that historic benchmark.

Technological Advantages of the Velaro Novo Platform

Siemens introduced the Velaro Novo platform in 2018 as an energy-efficient and high-speed solution for next-generation rail travel. The trains are expected to reach operational speeds of 360 km/h.

According to Siemens, the new design is 15% lighter than previous models. Combined with improved aerodynamics, this reduces energy consumption by up to 30%.

Although the platform has not yet entered mass production, it has already attracted international interest. In 2024, Siemens secured a contract to supply ten Velaro Novo trainsets for the Brightline West high-speed rail line in the U.S.

This marks the first confirmed commercial application of the platform, highlighting its strategic export potential.

Siemens continues testing with the goal of launching next-generation solutions. The success of Velaro Novo underscores the importance of innovation investment for the sustainable development of rail transport.

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