Deutsche Bahn (DB) and Siemens Mobility achieved a speed of 405.0 km/h with an ICE test train on the Erfurt - Leipzig/Halle high - speed line. In the German railway network, journeys exceeding 300 km/h are extremely rare and only for testing purposes.

Siemens Mobility’s new Velaro Novo is a logical further development of the three - generation Velaro. Numerous detailed innovations make this new high - speed train a highly efficient vehicle, with energy consumption reduced by up to 30%, and investment and maintenance costs significantly cut. Meanwhile, the seating capacity is increased by 10%. The Velaro Novo offers extensive configuration options, future - oriented, and can flexibly adapt to new operational ideas and requirements even after years of operation.

Dr. Philipp Nagl, CEO of DB InfraGO AG, said: “Today, the ICE is faster on the Erfurt - Leipzig/Halle route than ever before. The new record of 405.0 km/h also confirms the performance of this high - speed line’s infrastructure: After 10 years of continuous operation, we can travel at such a high speed without any problems and without adjustments. This proves that infrastructure investments over generations are the foundation for reliable, sustainable, and efficient transport and logistics. The test run provides us with important insights into the repair and maintenance of high - speed lines and the technological development of high - speed trains, thus benefiting passengers as well.”

Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary at the German Federal Ministry of Transport, stated: “Germany is and will remain in a leading position! Today’s high - speed run proves that we have high - quality infrastructure and efficient industry in Germany. The obtained test results will be of great benefit to DB AG’s future procurements and customers, enabling them to reach their destinations quickly, safely, and on time. This high - speed journey also strengthens Germany’s position as an economic and export nation.”