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Flixtrain Escalates Deutsche Bahn Challenge With Low-Cost Push and New High‑Speed Fleet

Flix says production has begun on its Talgo trains, signaling an expansion that will test Germany’s costly, capacity‑strained rail network.

Overview

  • CEO André Schwämmlein vows Flix will remain significantly cheaper than Deutsche Bahn as the company scales long‑distance rail service.
  • Up to 65 high‑speed trains worth €2.4 billion are on order, with Talgo production starting and a phased market rollout planned.
  • The new trains will forgo first class and onboard restaurants, add snack vending, guarantee every passenger a seat, and charge for large baggage and premium seats.
  • Flix targets more routes and higher frequencies in Germany and across Europe, positioning a 65‑train fleet against DB’s roughly 400 long‑distance trains.
  • High track access charges, congested infrastructure and timetable allocation by DB InfraGo remain hurdles, with Flix alleging unequal treatment and the group still reporting a €66 million loss in 2023.