The Zweckverband Nahverkehr Westfalen-Lippe (NWL) has announced a significant investment in regional rail transport, with plans to introduce 61 Mireo Plus B battery-powered trains from Siemens Mobility on the Northern Westphalia Network beginning in December 2029. The financing and provision of these vehicles will be managed through an innovative leasing model by Rock Rail NnW GmbH & Co. KG.
This initiative represents the largest modernization effort for regional passenger rail in the area and will result in Germany’s second-largest fleet of battery electric multiple units (BEMUs). These new trains are designed to charge their batteries on electrified lines and operate emission-free on non-electrified sections using stored energy. They feature intelligent energy management systems, which make them more energy-efficient and quieter than traditional diesel railcars. Additionally, they can recover energy during braking to further increase efficiency.
Mark Swindell, CEO of Rock Rail, stated: "This project is an excellent example of how innovative financing models can accelerate the introduction of state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly rail technology. We are delighted about the partnership with NWL and Siemens Mobility and look forward to making a significant contribution as a long-term lessor to the sustainable transformation of regional transport in North Rhine-Westphalia. It is further proof of our commitment to enabling green mobility solutions."
Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, commented: “We are delighted to be driving forward the decarbonization of rail transport in Westphalia with our innovative Mireo Plus B battery trains. The order underscores our leading role in alternative drive systems and demonstrates how we create sustainable solutions with state-of-the-art technology. Together with Rock Rail, we are enabling NWL to offer passengers an environmentally friendly and comfortable travel experience.”
Christiane Auffermann, NWL Managing Director, added: "Locally emission-free, alternatively powered vehicles are the future of local rail transport. Especially in rural regions like Westphalia-Lippe, battery-powered trains offer ideal technological prerequisites to bridge sections of track without existing overhead lines in a climate-friendly manner. With the deployment of the 61 Siemens vehicles, the second-largest BEMU fleet in Germany will operate in the NWL area – setting new standards for sustainability in regional transport."
The two-car Mireo Plus B trains measure 25 meters per car and have four doors per side for faster boarding and increased seating capacity. The interior design accommodates two wheelchair users and 18 bicycles per train while providing amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets including USB ports, comfort lighting, quiet operation levels, step-free access for barrier-free entry, and comfortable seating.
These features aim to improve passenger experience across East Westphalia-Lippe and Münsterland while supporting sustainability goals through material choices that allow over 90% recyclability.
With an annual service volume projected at approximately 7.1 million train kilometers over at least a 15-year period, this project signals NWL’s ongoing commitment to advancing mobility options using modern technology focused on environmental responsibility.