Reconstruction Without ETCS: Berlin–Hamburg Line to Be Upgraded by 2026

The reconstruction of the Berlin–Hamburg line will proceed without ETCS implementation, as Deutsche Bahn revised its technical approach to the upgrade. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The project is set to begin on August 1, 2025, and is scheduled for completion by the end of April 2026. All work will follow an accelerated plan, including track and overhead line modernization.

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Why ETCS Was Excluded from the Reconstruction Phase?

The original plan included ETCS installation alongside LZB and PZB systems, but this dual setup proved too costly.

Experience from the Riedbahn project between Frankfurt and Mannheim revealed that combining ETCS with traditional signaling delays line operation and increases project expenses.

Riedbahn reopened in December 2024, but ETCS activation is not expected until Q2 2025. This highlights the technical challenges of dual signaling systems on one corridor.

ETCS to Be Deployed Later Based on Rolling Stock Readiness

Deutsche Bahn now plans to implement ETCS in the 2030s, once all rolling stock is equipped with compatible onboard systems.

During the current reconstruction, microprocessor interlockings and axle counters will be upgraded to support future ETCS integration.

This phased strategy reduces risks, maintains operational reliability, and avoids overspending during the current infrastructure upgrade.

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