Three battery-electric multiple units of the “Mireo Plus B” type will gradually replace diesel railcars on the RE39, RB38, RB39 and RB94 lines from autumn 2026. The five-year pilot operation by DB RegioNetz Kurhessenbahn, NVV, RMV and NWL is intended to demonstrate how BEMU vehicles can be deployed economically on non-electrified routes.
Quick overview
This news is primarily relevant for rail travelers because it may have concrete impacts on planning, connections or infrastructure. The focus is on Deutsche Bahn, Kurhessenbahn, battery train, BEMU, Mireo Plus B, NVV, RMV, NWL, Nordwesthessen, regional transport, electrification and alternative drives. The key points are summarized compactly below.
Key points
- Three new “Mireo Plus B” (Siemens) battery multiple units with 122 seats replace three diesel railcars with 118 seats.
- Deployment from autumn 2026 on the RE39 and RB39 lines (Kassel–Bad Wildungen), later on RB38 (Kassel–Schwalmstadt) and RB94 (Marburg–Bad Laasphe).
- Drive output of 1,700 kW (BEMU) compared to 630 kW (diesel); regenerative braking energy recovery and charging via overhead catenary on electrified sections.
- Five-year test operation to trial the vehicle and charging infrastructure on behalf of NVV, RMV and NWL.
- Goal: medium-term replacement of diesel operations in regional transport on non-electrified routes.
What this means for travelers
For travelers, it is worth taking a close look at the time period, route and booking conditions. The key question is whether the news already triggers concrete timetable changes or initially describes a political or strategic development.
Context
In the Nordwesthessen network, the three public transport authorities NVV, RMV and NWL are cooperating with DB RegioNetz Kurhessenbahn to modernize regional transport with battery-electric vehicles. BEMU technology is considered a bridge between diesel operations and full overhead catenary electrification.
What to watch now
- Only check concrete timetable or construction notices once travel dates are set.
- Allow more generous connection times for international journeys.
- Monitor the source and operator information in case dates are still provisional.